Proverbs 23:18
For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֭י
H3588
כִּ֭י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
אִם
H518
אִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
2 of 7
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
יֵ֣שׁ
For surely there is
H3426
יֵ֣שׁ
For surely there is
Strong's:
H3426
Word #:
3 of 7
there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
וְ֝תִקְוָתְךָ֗
and thine expectation
H8615
וְ֝תִקְוָתְךָ֗
and thine expectation
Strong's:
H8615
Word #:
5 of 7
literally a cord (as an attachment); figuratively, expectancy
Cross References
Hebrews 10:35Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.Psalms 9:18For the needy shall not alway be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall not perish for ever.Jeremiah 29:11For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.Proverbs 24:14So shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul: when thou hast found it, then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off.Philippians 1:20According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.Psalms 37:37Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.Proverbs 24:20For there shall be no reward to the evil man; the candle of the wicked shall be put out.Luke 16:25But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
Historical Context
Israel's prophets repeatedly assured the suffering remnant of coming vindication and restoration. The exile would end; the Messiah would come; God's kingdom would triumph.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you live with confident expectation of future blessing, or are you consumed by present circumstances?
- How does assurance of God's ultimate purposes provide strength for current trials?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The promise 'surely there is an end' (or 'surely there is a future') assures believers that God's purposes will prevail. Current circumstances aren't ultimate; hope ('expectation') will be fulfilled. This provides antidote to envy (v. 17) by establishing certainty of future vindication. The wicked's prosperity is temporary; the righteous's reward is certain. God will complete His purposes; believers' hope will not be 'cut off' (disappointed). This doesn't promise earthly prosperity but eternal blessing. The 'end' encompasses both earthly vindication and eternal glory. Believers can endure present hardship by faith that God's promises are sure. Our expectation is not in vain; Christ will return and make all things right.