Bible verses for children
Waiting can really hurt.
Proverbs 13:12
Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when longing is fulfilled, it is a tree of life.
Proverbs 13:12 · World English Bible Classic (WEB)
In simple words
What does this verse mean?
Deferred means delayed. When something hoped for takes a long time, the waiting can feel painful. A fulfilled longing is compared to a tree of life because it brings renewal. The verse recognises these feelings without promising that every wish will come true.
If you are waiting for news or missing someone, tell a trusted person how the waiting feels. Plan something steady and comforting for today.
Talk about it
What support could make a long wait easier to bear?
A little more to explore
Bible context & readings +
This proverb describes the emotional difference between delayed hope and fulfilled longing. Its tree image expresses renewed life and joy. It is an observation about human experience, not an instruction to demand an immediate answer from God or other people.
Full readings at eBible.org · World English Bible Classic. Read with an adult.A simple prayer +
God, help us find support during long waits and joy in good news. Amen.
A suggested prayer, written for this guide.