This proverb highlights the difference between the fleeting gains of wickedness and the enduring rewards of righteousness. When someone engages in deceitful or immoral behavior, any benefits they gain are often temporary and unstable, much like 'deceptive wages' that do not provide lasting satisfaction or security. These gains can lead to further complications and unhappiness.
On the other hand, those who choose to live righteously—acting with integrity, fairness, and compassion—are promised a 'sure reward.' This reward is not limited to material wealth but extends to spiritual and emotional well-being. It encompasses a sense of peace, fulfillment, and alignment with divine principles. The proverb encourages individuals to focus on sowing seeds of righteousness in their lives, suggesting that such efforts will yield positive and reliable outcomes. This message is a call to prioritize ethical living and trust in the long-term benefits of doing what is right, both for oneself and for the greater good.