The hope of the righteous is joyThe concept of "hope" in biblical terms often refers to a confident expectation rooted in faith. For the righteous, those who live in accordance with God's will, this hope is not merely wishful thinking but a firm assurance of future joy. This joy is both present and eschatological, reflecting the peace and fulfillment found in a life aligned with divine principles. In the Old Testament, joy is frequently associated with God's presence and blessings (
Psalm 16:11). The righteous are those who have been justified by faith, as seen in the life of Abraham (
Genesis 15:6), and their hope is ultimately fulfilled in the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who brings eternal joy (
John 15:11).
but the expectations of the wicked will perish
In contrast, the "expectations" of the wicked are grounded in temporal and self-serving desires. The wicked, those who reject God's commandments and live in opposition to His ways, often place their hopes in wealth, power, or earthly pleasures. However, these expectations are fleeting and ultimately lead to disappointment and destruction. This theme is echoed throughout Scripture, such as inPsalm 1:4-6, where the wicked are likened to chaff blown away by the wind. The perishing of their expectations underscores the futility of a life lived apart from God. The ultimate perishing is seen in the final judgment, where those who have not turned to God face eternal separation from Him (Matthew 25:46).
Persons / Places / Events
1.
The RighteousIn the context of Proverbs, the righteous are those who live according to God's laws and principles. They are characterized by their faithfulness, integrity, and moral uprightness.
2.
The WickedThis term refers to those who live in opposition to God's ways. They are often depicted as deceitful, unjust, and morally corrupt.
3.
SolomonTraditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His proverbs are intended to impart wisdom and understanding.
4.
Ancient IsraelThe cultural and historical backdrop of Proverbs, where wisdom literature was a key component of teaching and moral instruction.
5.
Hope and ExpectationThese are central themes in this verse, contrasting the outcomes of the righteous and the wicked. Hope is associated with joy for the righteous, while expectation leads to perishing for the wicked.
Teaching Points
The Nature of HopeBiblical hope is not wishful thinking but a confident expectation based on God's promises. The righteous can have joy because their hope is secure in God.
The Consequences of WickednessThe expectations of the wicked are ultimately futile. This serves as a warning to avoid living in opposition to God's ways.
Joy as a Fruit of RighteousnessTrue joy is a byproduct of living a life aligned with God's will. It is not dependent on circumstances but on the assurance of God's faithfulness.
The Importance of Righteous LivingThis proverb encourages believers to pursue righteousness, knowing that it leads to a hopeful and joyful future.
Eternal PerspectiveThe verse reminds us to focus on eternal outcomes rather than temporary gains, as the righteous will experience everlasting joy.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 10:28?
2.How does Proverbs 10:28 define the hope of the righteous and wicked?
3.What practical steps can increase our hope as described in Proverbs 10:28?
4.How does Proverbs 10:28 connect with Romans 15:13 about hope and joy?
5.In what ways can we avoid the "expectations of the wicked" mentioned here?
6.How can Proverbs 10:28 guide our daily decisions and spiritual priorities?
7.How does Proverbs 10:28 define the hope of the righteous versus the expectation of the wicked?
8.What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 10:28?
9.How does archaeology support the themes found in Proverbs 10:28?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 10?
11.What does 'winning souls is wise' mean?
12.What are biblical teachings on expectations?
13.Proverbs 10:25 says the righteous remain firm in the storm--why then do natural disasters often strike believers and nonbelievers alike?
14.What does 'Living dog better than dead lion' mean?What Does Proverbs 10:28 Mean
The hopeHope in Scripture is never mere wishful thinking; it is a confident, forward-looking trust in God’s promises. “Surely there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off” (Proverbs 23:18). This secure anticipation rests on the character of the God “who cannot lie” (Titus 1:2).
of the righteousThe righteous are those who have been made right with God and who walk in His ways (Psalm 34:15). By faith they receive “the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ” (Romans 3:22), and their lives give evidence of that standing. Because their relationship with God is settled, their hope is well-founded.
is joyHope bears the fruit of joy. Jesus promised, “I have spoken these things to you so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete” (John 15:11). The righteous can rejoice now and look ahead to “fullness of joy” in God’s presence (Psalm 16:11).
butThis tiny word signals a sharp contrast. Proverbs often sets two paths side by side (Proverbs 11:23), pressing the reader to choose between them.
the expectationsThe wicked also look forward to something, but their “expectations” lack a solid anchor. Like the spider’s web “their hope shall be cut off” (Job 8:13-14).
of the wickedThe wicked are those who reject God’s rule and persist in unbelief (Psalm 1:4-6;Romans 1:18). Their outlook may appear confident, yet it is rooted in self, not in the Lord.
will perishWhatever the wicked count on—wealth, power, pleasures—vanishes. “When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes” (Proverbs 11:7). Their destiny is ruin: “the wicked will perish; the enemies of the LORD will be like the beauty of the fields, they will vanish—vanish like smoke” (Psalm 37:20). Jesus echoes the proverb’s warning: the broad road “leads to destruction” (Matthew 7:13).
summaryProverbs 10:28 draws a clear line. The righteous, resting in God’s promises, enjoy a present and future joy that nothing can overturn. The wicked, trusting in themselves, face an end where every expectation collapses. The verse invites each reader to anchor hope in Christ, where joy is guaranteed and eternal.
Verse 28. -
The hope of the righteous shall be gladness. The patient expectation of the righteous is joyful, because it has good hope of being, and is, fulfilled. So the apostle (
Romans 12:12) speaks, "Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation." Septuagint, "Gladness delayeth for the just."
The expectation of the wicked; that which the wicked eagerly hope for shall come to naught (
Proverbs 11:7;
Job 8:13;
Psalm 112:10).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
The hopeתּוֹחֶ֣לֶת(tō·w·ḥe·leṯ)Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 8431:Expectationof the righteousצַדִּיקִ֣ים(ṣad·dî·qîm)Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 6662:Just, righteousis joy,שִׂמְחָ֑ה(śim·ḥāh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 8057:Blithesomeness, gleebut the expectationsוְתִקְוַ֖ת(wə·ṯiq·waṯ)Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 8615:A cord, expectancyof the wickedרְשָׁעִ֣ים(rə·šā·‘îm)Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 7563:Wrong, an, bad personwill perish.תֹּאבֵֽד׃(tō·ḇêḏ)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 6:To wander away, lose oneself, to perish
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 10:28 The prospect of the righteous is joy (Prov. Pro Pr) 
