Proverbs 21 (KJV)
Read Proverbs chapter 21 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible.
Proverbs 21
Deep Verse Commentaries in This Chapter
Proverbs 21:1
"The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers o…"
Proverbs 21:2
"Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD po…"
Proverbs 21:31
"The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety …"
Proverbs 21:3
"To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord th…"
Popular Verses in Proverbs 21
Most searched verses from this chapter, with KJV text and context.
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Proverbs 21 Summary
Proverbs 21 emphasizes God's sovereignty over human hearts and plans. The king's heart is in the Lord's hand like a stream of water—He directs it wherever He pleases. Every way of a person seems right in their own eyes, but the Lord weighs the heart.
The chapter teaches that justice done is more important than sacrifice, and that no wisdom, plan, or counsel can succeed against the Lord. The horse is prepared for battle, but victory belongs to the Lord.
Key Themes
God directs heartsJustice over sacrificeNo plan against God succeedsVictory belongs to the Lord
Key Verses in Proverbs 21
"In the LORD's hand the king's heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him."
— Proverbs 21:1
Even the most powerful human authority is directed by God's sovereign hand.
"The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD."
— Proverbs 21:31
Prepare diligently but know that the outcome is in God's hands.
"To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice."
— Proverbs 21:3
God values ethical living over religious ritual.
Life Application
Prepare thoroughly but trust completely in God for the outcome. And remember: living justly matters more to God than religious performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does God control kings' decisions?
This proverb teaches that God can direct the decisions of rulers to accomplish His purposes, without necessarily removing their free will.
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