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Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But when longing is fulfilled, it is a tree of life.

Verse Takeaways

1

The Sickness of Waiting

Commentators agree that this proverb captures a universal human experience: the emotional and even physical distress that comes from a long, anxious delay in getting what you hope for. This validates the feeling of being 'heartsick' when prayers or desires seem to go unanswered for a long time.

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Proverbs

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Commentaries

4

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Proverbs 13:12

18th Century

Theologian

When the desire comes - The desire comes, it is a tree of life: i.e., the object of our desires is attained. Compare Prove…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Proverbs 13:12

19th Century

Bishop

A tree of life—See above, on Proverbs 11:30.

John Gill

John Gill

On Proverbs 13:12

17th Century

Pastor

Hope deferred makes the heart sick. That is, the object hoped for; if it is not enjoyed so soon as expected, at least if …

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Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Proverbs 13:12

17th Century

Minister

The delay of what is anxiously hoped for is very painful to the mind; obtaining it is very pleasant. But spiritual blessings are chiefly intended.<…