What does it mean that there is a way that seems right to a man (Proverbs 14:12)?

Response

Proverbs 14:12 declares, “There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death” (ESV). This proverb conveys a truth that dates back to the fall of humanity (Genesis 3). Adam and Eve thought it was right to eat the fruit, but it resulted in death for all creation «Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned», (Romans 5:12). Since then, human nature has been characterized by rebellion, as the prophet Isaiah mourned, “We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭53:6‬a. Even our understanding of right and wrong is distorted, leading to a flawed perception of reality and poor decision-making.

There are numerous instances in which Proverbs 14:12 is evident in our world. What seems right to an individual often ends in death. At times, it results in physical death. Passing a slow-moving vehicle on a hill may seem right, but it can lead to a head-on collision. The temporary high from drugs may seem right, but it can result in an overdose. In other cases, it leads to emotional or relational death. Engaging in flirtation with someone other than a spouse may seem right, but it can lead to the breakdown of a marriage. Pursuing a self-indulgent lifestyle may seem right, but it can result in health issues, unfulfilled promises, and shattered dreams. Deceptive paths lead to adverse consequences.

Of course, “the way of death” can also refer to the ultimate form of death: eternal separation from God (Revelation 20:14-15). There are many paths that lead to hell. False teachings often sound appealing—they cater to our sinful nature and make sense to our clouded minds. However, their end is death. Jesus cautioned that “if the blind lead the blind

“Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.” (Matthew 15:14). Rebellion against God usually seems right, as we relish the chance to exercise personal autonomy and please ourselves. But God warns against such foolishness: “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows” “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” (Galatians 6:7).

Without Christ’s illuminating light, we would all be the person mentioned in Proverbs 14:12, walking a deadly path that only appears to be right. The apostle Paul said that sinful humanity has darkened hearts and futile thoughts “because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.” (Romans 1:21), and any wisdom outside of God is tainted by envy and selfish ambition (James 3:13-15). Jesus is the Source of True Wisdom, and seeking godly wisdom is synonymous with seeking Him. As Matt Emerson writes, “While Proverbs certainly gives us wisdom about day to day life, the early church read it primarily as a book about Wisdom himself—the Lord Jesus. This was especially true of Proverbs 8:22–31, one of the most important texts for the early church’s understanding of Jesus” (“Where’s Jesus in Proverbs?” 3/21/20, www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/jesus-proverbs/, accessed 12/12/23). Therefore, every follower of Jesus has access to the Wisdom that founded the earth, allowing us to discern the right path that leads to life.

Proverbs 14:12 alSo, it encourages self-examination and caution in following our desires, cravings, and inclinations. While Christianity is not an ascetic religion promoting “self-imposed worship, false humility, and harsh treatment of the body” (Colossians 2:20-23), it does not advocate a “follow your heart” philosophy. We are instructed to not lean on our understanding but to follow the Lord’s direction (Proverbs 3:5-6).