Proverbs 14:18 (NKJV) — 18 The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

Rewards. In keeping with the theme of generally predictable results that runs throughout the Book of Proverbs, this proverb reveals that those who are simple (spiritually uninformed) will tend to inherit folly as a child tends to inherit property or wealth from a parent. It is the natural result of one’s identity. Just as children inherit from their parents because of who they are, so simpletons inherit folly because of who they are. Folly indicates emptiness, meaninglessness, uselessness. No purpose or reason can be seen in folly. For simpletons, life seems to be a series of disconnected, negative events. In short, things will not go well for them.

Just as princes receive crowns from their fathers because of who they are, so those who are prudent will be crowned with knowledge. Those who chose prudence as a way of life identify themselves with royalty. They display kingly traits. Their crowns will not be merely temporal; they will be crowned with something far more valuable and lasting than gold or silver or precious stones. They will be crowned with knowledge.

It has been said, “Knowledge is power.” Those who have true knowledge have tapped into a divine resource, for only God truly knows all things. Humans will never all have knowledge, but to have some knowledge is a marvelous gift.

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