Proverbs 14:14

The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.
– Proverbs 14:14

The word for backslider means to flinch or turn back. Isaiah and Jeremiah both used the word to describe those who apostatized from the truth, or true way. The backslider is then added to the list of fools, i.e., the foolish, the wicked, the scorner, the sluggard, etc. It describes one who has started in the way of wisdom but doesn’t continue in it. They may turn back because of simplicity or supposed gain, but the end is getting their own reward (Proverbs 1:31-32). This proverb speaks to the sowing and reaping principle. The second phrase emphasizes the good reward to the good man (Proverbs 12:14).

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