Chapter
Verse

Proverbs 1:24

ESV Because I have called and you refused to listen, have stretched out my hand and no one has heeded,
NIV But since you refuse to listen when I call and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand,
NASB Because I called and you refused, I stretched out my hand and no one paid attention;
CSB Since I called out and you refused, extended my hand and no one paid attention,
NLT 'I called you so often, but you wouldn’t come. I reached out to you, but you paid no attention.
KJV Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded;
NKJV Because I have called and you refused, I have stretched out my hand and no one regarded,

What does Proverbs 1:24 mean?

Verse 23 encouraged those who will listen to wisdom. Wisdom is pictured as a woman shouting out her message in a crowded, public place. This is an offer being made to anyone and everyone. And, all people are being given the opportunity to hear it. Nobody is being left with an excuse to say, "I didn't know." To those who listen, God will give wisdom (James 1:5). This single verse explains the rewards for those who respond.

Verse 24 quickly reverts from this positive turn. This verse introduces the fate of those who pass by and do not listen. Note, according to the context of this passage, there are only two possible responses to wisdom. The imagery Solomon uses means all people are being exposed to this offer. A person can only choose between listening to wisdom and ignoring "her." There is no way anyone can claim they were unaware of this offer (Romans 1:18–20). Here Solomon sets the stage for the consequences that are coming to those who are enticed by sin and do not listen to wisdom.
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