Proverbs 16:20 Meaning and Explanation
“He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Wise handling of affairs brings good results; those who trust God find happiness.
The Context of Proverbs 16:20
The proverb connects wise action and trust in God to favorable outcomes.
What Does Proverbs 16:20 Mean?
'He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good'—when a person addresses a situation, problem, or responsibility with wisdom, the result is 'good,' favorable outcome. 'Handleth wisely' implies discernment, prudent action, and attention to what the situation actually requires. Wisdom here is practical: the ability to perceive what a matter requires and to act accordingly.
'Whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he'—the person who places confidence in God, who believes in God's goodness and ultimate control, finds happiness. This is not the absence of difficulty but contentment and well-being that comes from trust. These two clauses present complementary paths to good outcomes: wise action in human affairs, and trust in God. Both lead to positive results, and both can be held simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 16:20
What does Proverbs 16:20 mean?
Wise handling of affairs brings good results; those who trust God find happiness.
What is the context of Proverbs 16:20?
The proverb connects wise action and trust in God to favorable outcomes.