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Proverbs 3 Pt. I
The major theme of the book of Proverbs is wisdom. The aim of this wonderful book is to help us acquire and apply God’s wisdom to our lives which will, in turn, have a dramatic effect on our decisions and choices for our everyday lives. I hope that you have noticed that in our other studies, up to this point, there has been a common theme and that is, our lives will be shaped and formed by the choices and decisions that we make. If we choose to follow the Lord and His word, our lives will be so much better off than if we decide to go our own way! We must spend time in God’s Word and as we spend our time there we will get direction from His word as the Holy Spirit reveals God’s truth by giving us understanding (“Howbeit when he the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth” John 16:13a). Secondly, we must spend time in prayer seeking God’s direction for our lives. Our words should echo those of David in Psalm 143:10, “Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.”
As a new Christian, I nearly wore this third chapter of Proverbs out. I would often go to a spot by the edge of the woods and read this chapter out loud. There is something about reading God’s Word out loud that really blesses my heart. Off the tongue into the ears and flowing through the heart.
I pray that in the days to come that you will step inside of this wonderful section of God’s Word and allow it to do a mighty work in your heart and in your life. The Psalmist writes in Psalm 119:5, “O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes!” May this be our prayer as we begin our study.
“My son forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.” Proverbs 3:1-2
I. Don’t Forget
For a train to be able to continue in the direction that it is traveling there must be two individual rails laid down beside one another. These make up the tracks. Now spiritually speaking from our text we are to have our mind as one rail and our heart as the other rail and these two will make up the track that our lives will travel upon. We remember God’s law with our minds. We set God’s word into our minds as we read it and meditate upon it. This way we will not forget it! Allow your heart to be a harbor that keeps God’s commandments in it. With the mind and heart given to God’s Word there will be less space available for the world’s junk and room for the devil to roam. The importance of daily consumption of God’s Word is vital to both mind and heart and this will In turn have a direct effect on choices and decisions one makes. It will also greatly affect our position (i.e. closeness to God or fellowship with the world). Don’t forget.
No one will ever be able to make the argument that they were able to live a life that was void of God; filled with sin and empty of God’s Word and commandments and that any good was added to such a life. But the life of those who forget not and keep God’s commandments will be blessed with length of days, long life and peace. Read verse two again and specifically, “Shall they add to thee.” The word “they” is speaking of God’s law and commandments. Matthew Henry wrote, “As grace increases, peace shall increase; and of the increase of Christ’s government and peace, in the heart as well as in the world, there shall be no end. Great and growing peace have those that love the law.” God’s Word leads one to God and in any and every situation in life God’s promises will be an anchor for the troubled soul; a light in the dark and strength that endures Proverbs 4:13 says, “Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is life.”
The major theme of the book of Proverbs is wisdom. The aim of this wonderful book is to help us acquire and apply God’s wisdom to our lives which will, in turn, have a dramatic effect on our decisions and choices for our everyday lives. I hope that you have noticed that in our other studies, up to this point, there has been a common theme and that is, our lives will be shaped and formed by the choices and decisions that we make. If we choose to follow the Lord and His word, our lives will be so much better off than if we decide to go our own way! We must spend time in God’s Word and as we spend our time there we will get direction from His word as the Holy Spirit reveals God’s truth by giving us understanding (“Howbeit when he the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth” John 16:13a). Secondly, we must spend time in prayer seeking God’s direction for our lives. Our words should echo those of David in Psalm 143:10, “Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.”
As a new Christian, I nearly wore this third chapter of Proverbs out. I would often go to a spot by the edge of the woods and read this chapter out loud. There is something about reading God’s Word out loud that really blesses my heart. Off the tongue into the ears and flowing through the heart.
I pray that in the days to come that you will step inside of this wonderful section of God’s Word and allow it to do a mighty work in your heart and in your life. The Psalmist writes in Psalm 119:5, “O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes!” May this be our prayer as we begin our study.
“My son forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.” Proverbs 3:1-2
I. Don’t Forget
For a train to be able to continue in the direction that it is traveling there must be two individual rails laid down beside one another. These make up the tracks. Now spiritually speaking from our text we are to have our mind as one rail and our heart as the other rail and these two will make up the track that our lives will travel upon. We remember God’s law with our minds. We set God’s word into our minds as we read it and meditate upon it. This way we will not forget it! Allow your heart to be a harbor that keeps God’s commandments in it. With the mind and heart given to God’s Word there will be less space available for the world’s junk and room for the devil to roam. The importance of daily consumption of God’s Word is vital to both mind and heart and this will In turn have a direct effect on choices and decisions one makes. It will also greatly affect our position (i.e. closeness to God or fellowship with the world). Don’t forget.
No one will ever be able to make the argument that they were able to live a life that was void of God; filled with sin and empty of God’s Word and commandments and that any good was added to such a life. But the life of those who forget not and keep God’s commandments will be blessed with length of days, long life and peace. Read verse two again and specifically, “Shall they add to thee.” The word “they” is speaking of God’s law and commandments. Matthew Henry wrote, “As grace increases, peace shall increase; and of the increase of Christ’s government and peace, in the heart as well as in the world, there shall be no end. Great and growing peace have those that love the law.” God’s Word leads one to God and in any and every situation in life God’s promises will be an anchor for the troubled soul; a light in the dark and strength that endures Proverbs 4:13 says, “Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is life.”
Proverbs 3 Pt. II
“Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: so shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. Proverbs 3:3-4
II. Close to the Heart
One can never allow their surroundings to alter the message and truth of God’s Word. Mercy (Loving-kindness) and truth are a soothing salve to a lost and hungry world. After I had been saved for only a short time, Proverbs 16:6 was a Scripture that really grabbed ahold of my heart and still has a place there at this very moment, “By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil.” We must never forsake that which is of the utmost importance. Too many Christians look with such disdain at the lost. They seem to forget, “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Such seem to be stingy with the blood of our Precious Saviour. Let’s never be found in such a place but let’s remember where we once stood; dead in our trespasses and sins!
How is it that Solomon teaches us to prevent our forsaking mercy and truth? We are told to bind them and write them in two particular places; around our neck and upon our hearts. When we place God’s mercy and truth in such fertile places we will always be reminded that such attributes are His and they will in turn be on display for those around us to see. Let’s bind the ornaments of mercy and truth around our necks and let’s write them on the tablets of our hearts! Let’s outwardly adorn that which we inwardly nurture.
One will find favour and good understanding. We will be esteemed by God and man. Don’t miss the order with which Solomon presents those who we will find such favour and good understanding. God is first and that is who we should desire to please above all.
One can never allow their surroundings to alter the message and truth of God’s Word. Mercy (Loving-kindness) and truth are a soothing salve to a lost and hungry world. After I had been saved for only a short time, Proverbs 16:6 was a Scripture that really grabbed ahold of my heart and still has a place there at this very moment, “By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil.” We must never forsake that which is of the utmost importance. Too many Christians look with such disdain at the lost. They seem to forget, “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Such seem to be stingy with the blood of our Precious Saviour. Let’s never be found in such a place but let’s remember where we once stood; dead in our trespasses and sins!
How is it that Solomon teaches us to prevent our forsaking mercy and truth? We are told to bind them and write them in two particular places; around our neck and upon our hearts. When we place God’s mercy and truth in such fertile places we will always be reminded that such attributes are His and they will in turn be on display for those around us to see. Let’s bind the ornaments of mercy and truth around our necks and let’s write them on the tablets of our hearts! Let’s outwardly adorn that which we inwardly nurture.
One will find favour and good understanding. We will be esteemed by God and man. Don’t miss the order with which Solomon presents those who we will find such favour and good understanding. God is first and that is who we should desire to please above all.
Proverbs 3 PT. III
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
Countless messages have been preached from our text. Many have read and reread these powerful verses and for a season took heed to what they said, only to, eventually, slide away from them and trust in themselves; while propping themselves upon their own understanding. For those who dive into this study, my prayer is that this will be a time of decision; a time that you come to the end of yourself and put into motion these golden words. I believe a freedom will sprout up out of the soil of God’s Word and the byproduct will be a power that only the GOD of the universe can provide when we trust in Him. Our days will be filled with a closeness to the Lord that will shine like the morning sun upon those who we cross paths with. And why will that be? Because we will be trusting not in ourselves but in our GOD!
III. Who do you Trust In?
How many times do you suppose that you have quoted verse five? I believe many of us are guilty of quoting a verse and not really believing what we are saying nor taking the time to get ahold of it and, in turn, allowing the Holy Spirit to teach us what He wants us to get out of a particular verse. Habit is a dulling practice to fall into. When there is purpose in our study and reading of God’s Word, there will be growth in our faith.
Let’s first define the word trust: assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone. With that in place, let’s consider how God’s word describes Him using the definition we’ve been given for our word trust.
Character- “The Lord is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works” – Psalm 145:17
Ability- “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.” –Hebrews 11:3 The ability of God to create something out of nothing is a remarkable truth.
Strength- Exodus 14:13-21 teaches us that God parted the Red sea.
Truth- “He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.”-Deuteronomy 32:4
Take time to go over these truths about God from these few scriptures from above and let them sink in deep. We must run deeper than the surface if we want to swim in the depths of who God really is according to His Word. Ask yourself, “How can I not trust in the Lord with all of my heart, knowing who He is according to His Word?” And why would I lean upon my own understanding knowing what God’s Word says about Him. We live in a fast paced world that has the ability to run us over “IF” we allow it. Take time alone to ask yourself, “Who am I trusting in for the totality of my life?” I Pray that God does a mighty work in your heart as you come to Him in a season of self-examination!
III. Who do you Trust In?
How many times do you suppose that you have quoted verse five? I believe many of us are guilty of quoting a verse and not really believing what we are saying nor taking the time to get ahold of it and, in turn, allowing the Holy Spirit to teach us what He wants us to get out of a particular verse. Habit is a dulling practice to fall into. When there is purpose in our study and reading of God’s Word, there will be growth in our faith.
Let’s first define the word trust: assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone. With that in place, let’s consider how God’s word describes Him using the definition we’ve been given for our word trust.
Character- “The Lord is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works” – Psalm 145:17
Ability- “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.” –Hebrews 11:3 The ability of God to create something out of nothing is a remarkable truth.
Strength- Exodus 14:13-21 teaches us that God parted the Red sea.
Truth- “He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.”-Deuteronomy 32:4
Take time to go over these truths about God from these few scriptures from above and let them sink in deep. We must run deeper than the surface if we want to swim in the depths of who God really is according to His Word. Ask yourself, “How can I not trust in the Lord with all of my heart, knowing who He is according to His Word?” And why would I lean upon my own understanding knowing what God’s Word says about Him. We live in a fast paced world that has the ability to run us over “IF” we allow it. Take time alone to ask yourself, “Who am I trusting in for the totality of my life?” I Pray that God does a mighty work in your heart as you come to Him in a season of self-examination!
Proverbs 3 Pt. IV
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding” Proverbs 3:5
IV. Who Do You Lean On?
This fifth verse was one that really spoke to my heart as a babe in Christ. Our focus for this study will be dialed in on, “And lean not unto thine own understanding.” This was a foreign concept to me in that everything that I did before I was saved was the outcome of the choices that I made. I would seek counsel and advice from others but ultimately it came down to me and me alone. And so, God spoke to my heart through His Word and began to teach me to seek Him, His will and direction for my life. In doing so, He began teaching me not to lean upon my understanding but His.
We will be teachable when we are reachable. We have to give ourselves over to the Lord and be submissive to His will for our lives. We cannot come to God with our plans in our hands and expect Him to bless them. When our hearts are fixed upon Him and His plans for our lives, we will be reachable and teachable. David wrote in Psalm 25:1-5, “Unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me. Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause. Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.” David did not lean on his own understanding. He had three requests of the Lord that made him reachable and teachable.
I. Show me
II. Teach me
III. Lead me
David said, “O my God, I trust in thee.” And “On thee do I wait all the day.” David was trusting in and submissive to the Lord. We would do well to follow his example. There will be times in our lives when we will not understand the outcome or circumstances of various situations. But our peace will be plentiful when we place our trust in the all-knowing God and lean upon Him and not our own finite understanding.
This fifth verse was one that really spoke to my heart as a babe in Christ. Our focus for this study will be dialed in on, “And lean not unto thine own understanding.” This was a foreign concept to me in that everything that I did before I was saved was the outcome of the choices that I made. I would seek counsel and advice from others but ultimately it came down to me and me alone. And so, God spoke to my heart through His Word and began to teach me to seek Him, His will and direction for my life. In doing so, He began teaching me not to lean upon my understanding but His.
We will be teachable when we are reachable. We have to give ourselves over to the Lord and be submissive to His will for our lives. We cannot come to God with our plans in our hands and expect Him to bless them. When our hearts are fixed upon Him and His plans for our lives, we will be reachable and teachable. David wrote in Psalm 25:1-5, “Unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me. Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause. Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.” David did not lean on his own understanding. He had three requests of the Lord that made him reachable and teachable.
I. Show me
II. Teach me
III. Lead me
David said, “O my God, I trust in thee.” And “On thee do I wait all the day.” David was trusting in and submissive to the Lord. We would do well to follow his example. There will be times in our lives when we will not understand the outcome or circumstances of various situations. But our peace will be plentiful when we place our trust in the all-knowing God and lean upon Him and not our own finite understanding.
Proverbs 3 Pt. V
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. Proverbs 3:6
V. Good Counsel for godly Direction
Many of us, who have lived long enough, have experienced many ups and downs in life. We have known heart break and disappointments as well as blessings upon blessings. We have learned from those tough and trying times that God has much to teach us. Gods plan and purpose is, and always will be, to make us more Christ like. The only way any of us will ever be more Christ like and grow in the knowledge of the Lord is when we purpose to drink from God’s Word and follow His directions for our lives. We draw from His promises as we move forward by faith. Jesus said, “I am the vine ye are the branches. He that abideth in me and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing” (John 15:5). We must come to Him with no side issues; only with a desire for Him to be the vine and for ourselves to be the branches. But…we must come!
Let’s break down our verse and see where it is each of us are at in our walk with the Lord. Being honest with ourselves can be the starting point of a deeper walk with the Lord.
A. Acknowledge GOD- There may not be a smaller word in the Bible that carries so much weight than a-l-l! “In all thy ways acknowledge him.” Our scripture does not tell us to acknowledge God in just a few select times or moments, but in all our ways. If you were to go on a long voyage across the trackless sea, you would put all of your confidence in the captain to get you to your destination. You would acknowledge the fact that he knew the way. The captain would know the path; when in actuality there was no visible path to be seen. Now…spiritually speaking, how is it that we do not come to the God of the universe in such a manner? I would much rather have “The Captain” lead the way. That is why our verse from our last study is so important, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thy own understanding.”
B. Be not wise- “Be not wise?” Not in your own eyes. God is all knowing and He sees all. When one is blind they often times have a Seeing Eye dog. The blind don’t argue with the dog or impart their own wisdom. The dog sees that which the blind man or woman cannot see. And so the dog leads them safely through their day. How much more Almighty God can see than a mere animal is not even comparable. It’s been written, “I have not the answers, but I will acknowledge my heavenly Father; for all things He sees. He is my comforter and compass. He shall surely guide me down the path He has for me.”
C. Fear the LORD- When we fear the Lord we will depart from evil. The Bible says, “By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil” (Proverbs 16:6). God does not make it so the born again can’t sin, but He makes it that they can’t sin and enjoy it. There will be consequences for our sins and God will not set back idle while His children run amuck. Hebrews 12:5-6 says, “And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, MY SON DESPISE NOT THOU THE CHASTENING OF THE LORD, NOR FAINT WHEN THOU ART REBUKED OF HIM: FOR WHOM THE LORD LOVETH HE CHASTENETH, AND SCOURGETH EVERY SON WHOM HE RECEIVETH.” It is far better to fear the Lord and keep His commandments, than to test the path of disobedience. A season of sin may seem sweet but the bitterness will soon surface.
Self-examination can be the door way that leads us to closeness with the Lord. I pray that you will drink deep from our scripture and allow the Lord to do a work in your heart.
Many of us, who have lived long enough, have experienced many ups and downs in life. We have known heart break and disappointments as well as blessings upon blessings. We have learned from those tough and trying times that God has much to teach us. Gods plan and purpose is, and always will be, to make us more Christ like. The only way any of us will ever be more Christ like and grow in the knowledge of the Lord is when we purpose to drink from God’s Word and follow His directions for our lives. We draw from His promises as we move forward by faith. Jesus said, “I am the vine ye are the branches. He that abideth in me and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing” (John 15:5). We must come to Him with no side issues; only with a desire for Him to be the vine and for ourselves to be the branches. But…we must come!
Let’s break down our verse and see where it is each of us are at in our walk with the Lord. Being honest with ourselves can be the starting point of a deeper walk with the Lord.
A. Acknowledge GOD- There may not be a smaller word in the Bible that carries so much weight than a-l-l! “In all thy ways acknowledge him.” Our scripture does not tell us to acknowledge God in just a few select times or moments, but in all our ways. If you were to go on a long voyage across the trackless sea, you would put all of your confidence in the captain to get you to your destination. You would acknowledge the fact that he knew the way. The captain would know the path; when in actuality there was no visible path to be seen. Now…spiritually speaking, how is it that we do not come to the God of the universe in such a manner? I would much rather have “The Captain” lead the way. That is why our verse from our last study is so important, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thy own understanding.”
B. Be not wise- “Be not wise?” Not in your own eyes. God is all knowing and He sees all. When one is blind they often times have a Seeing Eye dog. The blind don’t argue with the dog or impart their own wisdom. The dog sees that which the blind man or woman cannot see. And so the dog leads them safely through their day. How much more Almighty God can see than a mere animal is not even comparable. It’s been written, “I have not the answers, but I will acknowledge my heavenly Father; for all things He sees. He is my comforter and compass. He shall surely guide me down the path He has for me.”
C. Fear the LORD- When we fear the Lord we will depart from evil. The Bible says, “By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil” (Proverbs 16:6). God does not make it so the born again can’t sin, but He makes it that they can’t sin and enjoy it. There will be consequences for our sins and God will not set back idle while His children run amuck. Hebrews 12:5-6 says, “And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, MY SON DESPISE NOT THOU THE CHASTENING OF THE LORD, NOR FAINT WHEN THOU ART REBUKED OF HIM: FOR WHOM THE LORD LOVETH HE CHASTENETH, AND SCOURGETH EVERY SON WHOM HE RECEIVETH.” It is far better to fear the Lord and keep His commandments, than to test the path of disobedience. A season of sin may seem sweet but the bitterness will soon surface.
Self-examination can be the door way that leads us to closeness with the Lord. I pray that you will drink deep from our scripture and allow the Lord to do a work in your heart.
Proverbs 3 Pt.VI
Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.-Proverbs 3:7-8
VI. The Benefits of Following God’s Word
Picture yourself in a situation where you do not know what you should do or which direction that you should take. Yet you know of a person who has gone through a similar situation in their life and they would know what you should do and they are willing to give you clear and concise instructions that would benefit you and save you much heartache and worry. But you say no to their counsel and decide to strike out on your own. Little bit by little bit and day after day you reap the consequence of your foolish choices and decisions. Dear Christian, when one seeks to do their own thing and travel their own way apart from the precepts and commandments that are given to us in God’s Word, we will reap the sorrow and hard times that accompanies such foolish living.
We must apply what God teaches us in His Word if we want to live in a way that is pleasing to Him. Not only will we please our heavenly Father but our lives will be blessed with the benefits that will arise from our obedience in following His Word. I know many who take the time to go to the doctor and pay the money for the office visit and get a clear diagnosis of what it is that is ailing them; they have medication that is prescribed and they go to all of the trouble of driving to the pharmacy and spend their hard earned money on that which has been prescribed, yet they will not take the very thing that would heal them. They leave themselves wide open to the infection returning in just a few short weeks. Too many Christians are an example of the foolish patient who won’t take their medicine. The Bible says, “A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsel” (Proverbs 1:5).
Our focus in our study is verse eight. Not only will one be strengthened in their spirit as they take heed to the words of verse seven, but according to today’s verse, we will experience a physical health as well. The two go hand in hand, that is inner strength and health and physical wellbeing. Sin and worldly ways brings rottenness to our bones; it saps our strength and divides our mind. Strength and soundness will never be a by-product of ungodly living. But- when we choose not our own wisdom; when we fear the Lord and depart from evil, we will come to know the power, the soundness and strength deep in our bones.
I want us to look in to the mirror of God’s Word and allow Him to reveal our true reflection.
“My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. Proverbs 3:1-8
Picture yourself in a situation where you do not know what you should do or which direction that you should take. Yet you know of a person who has gone through a similar situation in their life and they would know what you should do and they are willing to give you clear and concise instructions that would benefit you and save you much heartache and worry. But you say no to their counsel and decide to strike out on your own. Little bit by little bit and day after day you reap the consequence of your foolish choices and decisions. Dear Christian, when one seeks to do their own thing and travel their own way apart from the precepts and commandments that are given to us in God’s Word, we will reap the sorrow and hard times that accompanies such foolish living.
We must apply what God teaches us in His Word if we want to live in a way that is pleasing to Him. Not only will we please our heavenly Father but our lives will be blessed with the benefits that will arise from our obedience in following His Word. I know many who take the time to go to the doctor and pay the money for the office visit and get a clear diagnosis of what it is that is ailing them; they have medication that is prescribed and they go to all of the trouble of driving to the pharmacy and spend their hard earned money on that which has been prescribed, yet they will not take the very thing that would heal them. They leave themselves wide open to the infection returning in just a few short weeks. Too many Christians are an example of the foolish patient who won’t take their medicine. The Bible says, “A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsel” (Proverbs 1:5).
Our focus in our study is verse eight. Not only will one be strengthened in their spirit as they take heed to the words of verse seven, but according to today’s verse, we will experience a physical health as well. The two go hand in hand, that is inner strength and health and physical wellbeing. Sin and worldly ways brings rottenness to our bones; it saps our strength and divides our mind. Strength and soundness will never be a by-product of ungodly living. But- when we choose not our own wisdom; when we fear the Lord and depart from evil, we will come to know the power, the soundness and strength deep in our bones.
I want us to look in to the mirror of God’s Word and allow Him to reveal our true reflection.
“My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. Proverbs 3:1-8
Proverbs 3 Pt.VII
Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst with new wine. – Proverbs 3:9-10
VII. The Benefits of following God’s Instructions
When we come to the realization that everything that we have comes from the Lord, we will be quicker in giving back to Him who it originated from in the first place. This is a simple principle that many Pastors and preachers shy away from in their preaching and teaching. We should never shy away from the wonderful instructions that God has given us in His precious Word. It is there for a reason. God does not need anything from His children. Consider that when believers follow God’s command that we have been given in our verses today, it is a way that God has made it possible for us to remember Him and all that He has blessed us with. If we would all be honest, we have a tendency to forget God in the middle of a blessing. I’m afraid our hearts begin to look at all we have done and the plans we have made. Pride is a monster that rears its ugly head at any opportunity that it can. When we give and show honour to God by giving back to Him, it keeps us humble, in that we are reminded that, “ Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning” (James 1:17).
There is a promise that comes with the command. We shall have plenty. We will be blessed and it will allow us to be a blessing to others; Thus God’s provision is twofold.
When I was growing up my Dad taught me a Biblical principle without even knowing it. How well do you take care of the things that God has blessed you with? My Dad’s automobiles always had a shine to them; inside and out. How well do we take care of those things that God has blessed us with. We will honour the Lord with our possessions when we take good care of our possessions knowing that the God of heaven has provided in a mighty way.
VII. The Benefits of following God’s Instructions
When we come to the realization that everything that we have comes from the Lord, we will be quicker in giving back to Him who it originated from in the first place. This is a simple principle that many Pastors and preachers shy away from in their preaching and teaching. We should never shy away from the wonderful instructions that God has given us in His precious Word. It is there for a reason. God does not need anything from His children. Consider that when believers follow God’s command that we have been given in our verses today, it is a way that God has made it possible for us to remember Him and all that He has blessed us with. If we would all be honest, we have a tendency to forget God in the middle of a blessing. I’m afraid our hearts begin to look at all we have done and the plans we have made. Pride is a monster that rears its ugly head at any opportunity that it can. When we give and show honour to God by giving back to Him, it keeps us humble, in that we are reminded that, “ Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning” (James 1:17).
There is a promise that comes with the command. We shall have plenty. We will be blessed and it will allow us to be a blessing to others; Thus God’s provision is twofold.
When I was growing up my Dad taught me a Biblical principle without even knowing it. How well do you take care of the things that God has blessed you with? My Dad’s automobiles always had a shine to them; inside and out. How well do we take care of those things that God has blessed us with. We will honour the Lord with our possessions when we take good care of our possessions knowing that the God of heaven has provided in a mighty way.
Proverbs 3 Pt. VIII
I pray that up to this point that our study has revealed much from God’s Word, and in doing so it has revealed even more about us. In just the first ten verses I believe the counsel and direction that has been given is as rich as any portion of scripture in God’s precious Word. For the new believer it can be likened to the first time one walks on a well-worn path that leads in the right direction, towards a wonderful destination (spiritually that destination being the Truth). For the seasoned saint, it can be a reminder of the timeless beauty and depth of God’s everlasting truth. God’s Word never grows old or loses its steam. It is alive. Thank God for that.
I hope that out of the next twenty-five verses we all gain wisdom, insight, and allow the Holy Spirit to teach us as we dig in. My prayer is that of the Psalmist in Psalm 119:18 “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.”
“My son despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.”- Proverbs 3:11-12
VIII. The Love Found in Correction
When one is chastened (disciplined) and corrected by God they should never think of it as mean spirited or hateful. These ways are not the motives of All Mighty God when He is dealing with His children. Listen, it is not a power trip or an opportunity for the God of the universe to have a little fun at the expense of a weak and powerless human in His presence. NO! When one understands the motive behind the correction they will not despise or be weary in it. Yes, it will be uncomfortable and certainly not a pleasant experience but it will in the end be a worthwhile and enriching season of one’s life.
Love is found in the heart of correction when the motive is to teach and to change the direction or path that one has chosen that ultimately would have led them down a road of heartache and pain and even dire consequences in some cases. This is the motive of God the Father.
The writer of the Hebrews epistle quotes our verses today (Hebrews 12:5) as a reminder to the redeemed at that time and I hope that it will be a reminder to the redeemed today as well. Let’s consider this rich section of God’s Word and include it in our study of Proverbs. The two walk in unison.
I. Remember To Remember.
And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, Nor faint when thou art rebuked of Him: For whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom He receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, wherefore all are partakers, then ye are bastards, and not sons.-Hebrews 12:5-8
God will deal with His wayward children. That is a fact. It is a birth mark of a believer that when we sin God will chasten and rebuke us. I once heard these words, “God doesn’t make it so that we can’t sin, but He makes it that we can’t sin and enjoy it.” If we don’t want to endure such correction we need to be quick to confess our sins, (1 John 1:9). But thank God that when we do sin we know the love and feel the heaviness of His dealing with us. If there is no chastening or conviction I would put a question mark after that thing called salvation. Remember these words, “Wherefore all are partakers” (Speaks of the chastening of the born again ).
II. Remember The Reason Why.
Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.-Hebrews 12:9-11
The reason for the discipline:
A. To be partakers of His holiness.
B. To yield the peaceable fruit of righteousness.
It is for our own good and for God’s glory. At the end of the day God is more interested in us becoming more Christ like than anything else. There is love found in the correction that we endure. God loves us too much to allow us to continue on a wayward path that will lead us in a direction away from Him. The psalmist writes, “Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word” (Psalm 119:67). Many good things have come from the discipline that I received from my earthly father. Spiritually speaking many great things will come when we allow our heavenly Father to discipline us. That is the love found in correction. That is a Biblical truth indeed.
I hope that out of the next twenty-five verses we all gain wisdom, insight, and allow the Holy Spirit to teach us as we dig in. My prayer is that of the Psalmist in Psalm 119:18 “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.”
“My son despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.”- Proverbs 3:11-12
VIII. The Love Found in Correction
When one is chastened (disciplined) and corrected by God they should never think of it as mean spirited or hateful. These ways are not the motives of All Mighty God when He is dealing with His children. Listen, it is not a power trip or an opportunity for the God of the universe to have a little fun at the expense of a weak and powerless human in His presence. NO! When one understands the motive behind the correction they will not despise or be weary in it. Yes, it will be uncomfortable and certainly not a pleasant experience but it will in the end be a worthwhile and enriching season of one’s life.
Love is found in the heart of correction when the motive is to teach and to change the direction or path that one has chosen that ultimately would have led them down a road of heartache and pain and even dire consequences in some cases. This is the motive of God the Father.
The writer of the Hebrews epistle quotes our verses today (Hebrews 12:5) as a reminder to the redeemed at that time and I hope that it will be a reminder to the redeemed today as well. Let’s consider this rich section of God’s Word and include it in our study of Proverbs. The two walk in unison.
I. Remember To Remember.
And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, Nor faint when thou art rebuked of Him: For whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom He receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, wherefore all are partakers, then ye are bastards, and not sons.-Hebrews 12:5-8
God will deal with His wayward children. That is a fact. It is a birth mark of a believer that when we sin God will chasten and rebuke us. I once heard these words, “God doesn’t make it so that we can’t sin, but He makes it that we can’t sin and enjoy it.” If we don’t want to endure such correction we need to be quick to confess our sins, (1 John 1:9). But thank God that when we do sin we know the love and feel the heaviness of His dealing with us. If there is no chastening or conviction I would put a question mark after that thing called salvation. Remember these words, “Wherefore all are partakers” (Speaks of the chastening of the born again ).
II. Remember The Reason Why.
Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.-Hebrews 12:9-11
The reason for the discipline:
A. To be partakers of His holiness.
B. To yield the peaceable fruit of righteousness.
It is for our own good and for God’s glory. At the end of the day God is more interested in us becoming more Christ like than anything else. There is love found in the correction that we endure. God loves us too much to allow us to continue on a wayward path that will lead us in a direction away from Him. The psalmist writes, “Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word” (Psalm 119:67). Many good things have come from the discipline that I received from my earthly father. Spiritually speaking many great things will come when we allow our heavenly Father to discipline us. That is the love found in correction. That is a Biblical truth indeed.
Proverbs 3 Pt.IX
In today’s study, we are going to bundle together six verses. Quantity does not always ensure quality but in this instance I believe that it will. One stick of dynamite is sure to get the job done but six sticks tied together will go above and beyond the desired effect. We are going to soak and saturate our heart, mind and eyes in and upon six powerful verses that I hope will breathe new life into our understanding as it pertains to true wealth and riches. Monetary riches can be a wonderful thing as long as the money doesn’t own the man or woman. Spiritual wealth and riches does not bring with it the baggage that far too often accompanies monetary gain. When ones spiritual wealth is based and built upon the foundation of God’s Word, your heavenly portfolio will paint a picture of Christlikeness. The riches will be pleasing to God and a blessing to those around you.
Solomon wrote “My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God” (Proverbs 2:1-5). This is an invitation that will make one wise and wealthy at the same time. That invitation is extended today as well. Let’s begin.
“Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. Length of days is in her hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to them that lay ahold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.”
Proverbs 3:13-18
I. The Happy Man
Verse 13
Happy (blessed) will be the person who first finds wisdom. Many look and search for days and years on end for a way to live a blessed life. I am quite certain that wisdom has been shown to many and they turn their head and run in the other direction to get away from the very thing they are searching for. Those who heed wisdom’s call, they will be blessed. It sounds so simple, yet I myself ran for years from that which would have led me to happiness. Why is there happiness in such wisdom? It comes from God. Man’s deductions and philosophies are marred in the miry clay of his sin. They are formed on the potter’s wheel of iniquity. That which doesn’t have its origin from God will lead one further from the truth and nowhere near the blessed life. Proverbs 23:23 says, “Buy the truth and sale it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.” There is not one investment that can give such a rich return as when one invests in God’s Word. That person will be happy. After wisdom is found, we need to grab ahold of it and let it take ahold of us. We must not just simply and lazily look upon it, but we should drill deep into it and plumb its bountiful depths and gain understanding. From wisdom we gain understanding and when understanding is married to application, we grow in the Word of God and live out the way and will of God; all this is worked out through God the Holy Spirit, but we must come to the Word of God.
II.The Rich Man
Verses 14-16
I know many people who are rich in possessions and position. They are well known, they are highly thought of. Recognized by many, but known by few. Their possessions help define their position. Nothing is out of their reach. They seem restless and relentless in their pursuit of joy and happiness. They seem to have it all, yet the pursuit never seems to end in their quest to find some kind of meaning in their lives. The inward storm of their souls is outwardly played out in the constant revolving door of new possessions and the unquenchable desire for another new position. These people in God’s economy are paupers. No amount of silver and no amount of fine gold compares to the riches one gains from the wisdom and understanding that is gleaned from God’s Word. I believe that the Christian will find true contentment in the wealth of knowing that their sins are forgiven and that they know beyond a shadow of a doubt that they have peace with God (Romans 5:1.) With this truth as an unshakeable foundation, the born again will see their heavenly portfolio expand as they spend more and more time in the Word of God. They will come to understand and embrace that what they have is more precious than rubies and anything (I mean anything!) that they could ever desire.
The benefits of wisdom and understanding are pictured as one who holds out blessings in both hands. The right hand holds, ‘Length of days.’ I Timothy 4:8 says, “For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.” The left hand holds, ‘Riches and honor.’ Remember the riches of rubies and gold are not to be compared to the gain that is found in wisdom and understanding. Many Christians will never find their names on list of the top wealthy people in the world, but God will provide for them in the here and now in a powerful way, monetarily as well as materially. Not only are riches found in the left hand but honour as well; a double portion of goodness and blessing. Proverbs 8:18 plainly states, “Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness.” The main thrust of Proverbs eight speaks of God’s wisdom, understanding, instruction and knowledge. It is amazing how God’s Word from one verse to another will bear witness to the truths of God’s Word. I would much rather have honour that comes from God than the honour that has its origin in one’s self and man alone.
III. The Peaceful Man
Verses 17-18
The Bible says, “Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard” (Proverbs 13:15.) I have often alluded to the fact that God’s Word often times gives us examples and illustrations of two different roads or two different paths, and teaches us what we can expect to find on those roads and paths we choose to take. The ways of the transgressors is hard, but the ways of those who find wisdom and get understanding, and don’t miss this, and retains them, there is happiness. What are the attributes of such a person, pleasantness and peace? The quality of life will be far greater and meaningful for the one who travels the way that God’s Word leads. Let’s allow God’s Word to solidify our understanding when it comes to the pleasantness and peace that awaits us as we travel God’s way.
Light- “For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life” (Proverbs 6:28.)
Life- “For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord” (Proverbs 8:35.)
Health- “For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all flesh” (Proverbs 4:22.)
I never knew or was acquainted with peace or pleasantness that had any lasting power to it before I was saved. The path that one takes as they allow God’s precepts and instruction to be their guide is full of peace and is satisfying in its pleasantness for those who choose to tread down the way of the Lord. It is not free of trials and tribulations, but one is strengthened and sustained as they go about their way. Let this sink in, “She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her.” Life, true life, sustaining life, an empowered life, awaits those who take hold of the wisdom and understanding that is available in the Word of God. This all leads back to where we began our study, “Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.”
Solomon wrote “My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God” (Proverbs 2:1-5). This is an invitation that will make one wise and wealthy at the same time. That invitation is extended today as well. Let’s begin.
“Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. Length of days is in her hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to them that lay ahold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.”
Proverbs 3:13-18
I. The Happy Man
Verse 13
Happy (blessed) will be the person who first finds wisdom. Many look and search for days and years on end for a way to live a blessed life. I am quite certain that wisdom has been shown to many and they turn their head and run in the other direction to get away from the very thing they are searching for. Those who heed wisdom’s call, they will be blessed. It sounds so simple, yet I myself ran for years from that which would have led me to happiness. Why is there happiness in such wisdom? It comes from God. Man’s deductions and philosophies are marred in the miry clay of his sin. They are formed on the potter’s wheel of iniquity. That which doesn’t have its origin from God will lead one further from the truth and nowhere near the blessed life. Proverbs 23:23 says, “Buy the truth and sale it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.” There is not one investment that can give such a rich return as when one invests in God’s Word. That person will be happy. After wisdom is found, we need to grab ahold of it and let it take ahold of us. We must not just simply and lazily look upon it, but we should drill deep into it and plumb its bountiful depths and gain understanding. From wisdom we gain understanding and when understanding is married to application, we grow in the Word of God and live out the way and will of God; all this is worked out through God the Holy Spirit, but we must come to the Word of God.
II.The Rich Man
Verses 14-16
I know many people who are rich in possessions and position. They are well known, they are highly thought of. Recognized by many, but known by few. Their possessions help define their position. Nothing is out of their reach. They seem restless and relentless in their pursuit of joy and happiness. They seem to have it all, yet the pursuit never seems to end in their quest to find some kind of meaning in their lives. The inward storm of their souls is outwardly played out in the constant revolving door of new possessions and the unquenchable desire for another new position. These people in God’s economy are paupers. No amount of silver and no amount of fine gold compares to the riches one gains from the wisdom and understanding that is gleaned from God’s Word. I believe that the Christian will find true contentment in the wealth of knowing that their sins are forgiven and that they know beyond a shadow of a doubt that they have peace with God (Romans 5:1.) With this truth as an unshakeable foundation, the born again will see their heavenly portfolio expand as they spend more and more time in the Word of God. They will come to understand and embrace that what they have is more precious than rubies and anything (I mean anything!) that they could ever desire.
The benefits of wisdom and understanding are pictured as one who holds out blessings in both hands. The right hand holds, ‘Length of days.’ I Timothy 4:8 says, “For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.” The left hand holds, ‘Riches and honor.’ Remember the riches of rubies and gold are not to be compared to the gain that is found in wisdom and understanding. Many Christians will never find their names on list of the top wealthy people in the world, but God will provide for them in the here and now in a powerful way, monetarily as well as materially. Not only are riches found in the left hand but honour as well; a double portion of goodness and blessing. Proverbs 8:18 plainly states, “Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness.” The main thrust of Proverbs eight speaks of God’s wisdom, understanding, instruction and knowledge. It is amazing how God’s Word from one verse to another will bear witness to the truths of God’s Word. I would much rather have honour that comes from God than the honour that has its origin in one’s self and man alone.
III. The Peaceful Man
Verses 17-18
The Bible says, “Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard” (Proverbs 13:15.) I have often alluded to the fact that God’s Word often times gives us examples and illustrations of two different roads or two different paths, and teaches us what we can expect to find on those roads and paths we choose to take. The ways of the transgressors is hard, but the ways of those who find wisdom and get understanding, and don’t miss this, and retains them, there is happiness. What are the attributes of such a person, pleasantness and peace? The quality of life will be far greater and meaningful for the one who travels the way that God’s Word leads. Let’s allow God’s Word to solidify our understanding when it comes to the pleasantness and peace that awaits us as we travel God’s way.
Light- “For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life” (Proverbs 6:28.)
Life- “For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord” (Proverbs 8:35.)
Health- “For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all flesh” (Proverbs 4:22.)
I never knew or was acquainted with peace or pleasantness that had any lasting power to it before I was saved. The path that one takes as they allow God’s precepts and instruction to be their guide is full of peace and is satisfying in its pleasantness for those who choose to tread down the way of the Lord. It is not free of trials and tribulations, but one is strengthened and sustained as they go about their way. Let this sink in, “She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her.” Life, true life, sustaining life, an empowered life, awaits those who take hold of the wisdom and understanding that is available in the Word of God. This all leads back to where we began our study, “Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.”
_To view past DITW studies, Click Here to be taken to the archive page.