What does Proverbs 24:14 mean?

The prior verse (Proverbs 24:13) referred to something pleasurable and valuable: honey. It is appropriate to enjoy what God provided (1 Timothy 4:4) when those things are used as He intended. This portion of the wise saying applies this sense of approval to the concept of wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; Psalm 19:9–11). As honey provides pleasure and nourishment to the body, wisdom is uplifting and life-giving to the soul.

Scripture, especially the book of Proverbs, connects godly wisdom with concepts such as life and security (Proverbs 10:7; 12:28; 14:27). These are not guarantees of invincibility. The same books of Scripture also note that godly people can suffer tragedy and hardship (Psalm 18:6; 132:1; Proverbs 24:16). Rather, the Bible teaches that those who follow God's will and avoid sin can avoid negative natural consequences. They also move closer to God and avoid eternal death (Proverbs 8:32–36; 11:4). Whatever brings a person closer to truth (John 14:6) brings them closer to God.

John 3:36 promises, "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life." Believers are guaranteed a place in heaven because they belong to the One who conquered death and is seated now at the Father's right hand. Jesus, who is the Truth, promised, "In my Father's house are many rooms… And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also" (John 14:2–3). Further, the believer's hope of seeing Jesus and being with Him in heaven is not groundless. It is secure. Hebrews 6:19 describes the believer's hope as "a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain."