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What does Proverbs 15:29 mean?

God keeps His distance from those who do wrong, but He listens to the prayers of good people. Proverbs 15:29 - Modern Text Bible

(God is close to those who live rightly and hears their prayers, but He’s far from those who choose evil.)

God stays far from people who do evil, but he pays close attention to the prayers of those who live honestly. The Hebrew word for "prayer" here is tefillah, meaning a plea or earnest request. This isn’t about religious performance; it’s about the kind of person you are when no one’s looking.

This verse challenges the idea that anyone can just call out to God and get what they want, regardless of how they live. It’s not about being perfect, but about being genuine and striving to do right. The distance isn’t physical — it’s about closeness in relationship, trust, and openness.

If you’ve ever felt ignored or unheard, this verse suggests that living with integrity opens a line of honest communication, not just with people, but with the divine. It’s a reminder that how you live shapes the depth of your connections, both human and spiritual.

Similar verses: Psalm 34:15, Isaiah 59:2, John 9:31