Chapter
Verse

Proverbs 8:20

ESV I walk in the way of righteousness, in the paths of justice,
NIV I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice,
NASB I walk in the way of righteousness, In the midst of the paths of justice,
CSB I walk in the ways of righteousness, along the paths of justice,
NLT I walk in righteousness, in paths of justice.
KJV I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment:
NKJV I traverse the way of righteousness, In the midst of the paths of justice,

What does Proverbs 8:20 mean?

This verse continues to speak the words of wisdom, personified as a woman (Proverbs 8:1–4). The word "walk" conveys the sense of consistency and habit. Merely stumbling across truth by accident is not the same as a committed approach to truth (Proverbs 3:21–24). Given the value of godly wisdom (Proverbs 8:18–19), it's something worth approaching with dedicated effort (Proverbs 8:17).

When the Lord Jesus ministered on earth, He conducted Himself consistently in a righteous and just manner. He always did what was just or right for those who needed His help. His righteousness was beyond incrimination. In fact, His reputation was so secure that He could boldly dare His enemies by asking, "Which one of you convicts me of sin?" (John 8:46). The apostle Paul testified that Jesus knew no sin (2 Corinthians 5:21), and the apostle Peter described Jesus as "a lamb without blemish or spot" (1 Peter 1:19). Peter also said plainly, "He [Jesus] committed no sin" (1 Peter 2:22).

While absolute perfection is impossible for us, all who believe on Jesus receive a positional righteousness: we have become the righteousness of God in Him (2 Corinthians 5:21). Also, we have a practical righteousness. First Peter 2:24 states: "He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness."
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