What does Proverbs 14:13 mean?

Earthly happiness is fleeting (Matthew 6:19–21). Appearances can be deceiving (1 Samuel 16:7; John 7:24). Those who laugh, on the outside, might be in deep pain, in their heart. Earthly pursuits will not change this, and any joy they bring is temporary. Even while a sinner laughs, his heart may be sorrowful, and when his joy ends, he experiences grief (Proverbs 10:8; 11:23). Those who put their faith in Christ can rest in knowing their sorrow will be truly healed (Revelation 21:4).

In Ecclesiastes, Solomon tells us where he looked for meaning and satisfaction. Among the places he looked was pleasure, but he did not find any significance or satisfaction there. He concludes his book by exhorting his readers to remember the Lord (Ecclesiastes 12:13). First Timothy 5:6 affirms that "she who is self-indulgent is dead even while she lives." Real significance comes only from a right relationship with God. The psalmist testifies that God is the source of genuine, lasting delight. He writes: "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore" (Psalm 16:11).