Proverbs 21:18

The book of Proverbs gives us insights into so many different areas of life. The book gives us instruction on how to live our lives for God. Here is a proverb that gives us insight: 

Proverbs 21:18 (NASBStr)

The wicked is a ransom for the righteous,

And the treacherous is in the place of the upright.

Proverbs 21:18 (NIV1984)

The wicked become a ransom for the righteous,

and the unfaithful for the upright.

Proverbs 21:18 (ESV)

The wicked is a ransom for the righteous,

and the traitor for the upright.

In this proverb Solomon might have in mind the story of when Saul's seven sons were hung as a ransom for the sins of Saul against the House of David, Solomon's father (1 Chronicles).   Later the truth of this proverb would be played out in the story of Esther.  Haman attempted to kill Mordecai, Esther's uncle and guardian, but instead was hung on the same gallows he had prepared for Mordecai (Esther 7:9-10).   The righteous are not always delivered from famine but they will always be delivered from judgement. The wicked will be taking their place.   Those who are unfaithful will stand in judgement for the faithful.   Those who are wicked will be standing in judgement for the righteous.   God has His protective hand on the righteous and faithful.  They dare not fear the dangers of that judgment.   Not only will God protect them, God will have someone take their place.