Proverbs 13:10-12 (ESV)
10 By insolence comes nothing but strife,
but with those who take advice is wisdom.
11 Wealth gained hastily will dwindle,
but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.
12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.
“By insolence comes nothing but strife.” The Hebrew word translated “insolence” is zadon, which carries the idea of arrogance, pride, and an overinflated view of oneself. Proud people resist correction because they assume they are already right. They do not listen to rebuke or wise counsel. Instead, when someone lovingly points out their error, they often become defensive, accusatory, or argumentative. A woman who constantly interrupts her husband, dismisses the concerns of friends, refuses accountability, or assumes she always knows best will eventually create tension everywhere she goes.
In contrast, “with those who take advice is wisdom.” Wise people are teachable. They seek counsel because they recognize their own limitations. The wise woman asks older godly women for guidance in marriage, parenting, finances, ministry, and spiritual growth. She listens when trusted friends lovingly point out blind spots or correct her thinking. She welcomes biblical counsel instead of resenting it. The woman who admits she does not know everything is often the one who makes the best decisions.
Solomon then turns to the subject of money. “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” Scripture repeatedly warns against the temptation to pursue quick and easy riches. “Get rich quick” schemes, gambling, dishonest business practices, and manipulative ways of using people for financial gain rarely end well. Money gained recklessly is usually spent recklessly. In contrast, faithful and patient labor produces stability over time. The woman who works hard, spends carefully, gives generously, avoids unnecessary debt, and plans wisely for the future builds something lasting. God often prospers his people through ordinary faithfulness rather than dramatic shortcuts.
Finally, the Proverbs address the deep ache of disappointment. “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.” Deferred hope refers to longings and expectations that remain unfulfilled. The longer hope is delayed, the heavier the burden can feel. Some long for marriage, children, reconciliation, healing, financial stability, or spiritual growth in loved ones. When those desires remain unmet year after year, the heart can grow weary. Yet fulfilled desires bring refreshment and renewed strength like a “tree of life,” a picture of flourishing, vitality, and joy.
Although the righteous do not always immediately receive everything they long for, the Lord gives his people confidence to look beyond present disappointments. Believers can endure deferred hopes because they know God is faithful and their future is secure. Scripture promises that those who trust in Jesus will never ultimately be put to shame. If you feel discouraged by your circumstances today, do not lose heart. Never forget that for the Christian, the best is yet to come.