Proverbs 12:21 is one of those verses that makes me question those who claim the Bible is inerrant. What does it mean when it says
No harm befalls the righteous, but the wicked are filled with trouble?
Surely, the righteous are indeed harmed at times. Jesus Christ, the only human ever to truly be righteous, was ridiculed, flogged, beaten, and crucified. He was injured. He was harmed.
Of course, through His pain and suffering, we who believe are inheritors of something more grand than life itself. Through His harm, we are saved and receive the gift of eternal life. Still, there was intent to harm and, in reality, much harm was done in order for that gift to be delivered.
But perhaps there’s another side to this tale that we should consider.
The second clause in this verse tells us what happens with the wicked. They are “filled” with trouble. In other words, because of their evil deeds, only trouble awaits them. In this life and in the afterlife.
Have you ever witnessed someone rush to rebellion only to find them later wallowing in self-pity because some misfortune has befallen them? Make no mistake, we must all reap what we sow.
While misfortune can sometimes fall on the righteous, it is not because of anything they have done. After all, God causes the sun to shine on both the just and the unjust.
Are you watching your steps to ensure you do not bring misfortune to your doorstep? Are you guided by the spirit of Christ or your own flawed humanity?
Allen Taylor is the author of I Am Not the King.