He
layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7)
Proverbs Concerning: Our Relationship To Wisdom
& Understanding: Prov 3:21-24
21) My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and
discretion:
22) So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck.
23) Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not
stumble.
24) When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie
down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.
INTRODUCTION:
We now continue by
looking at several proverbs that address the proper relationship we should have
towards the blessings of wisdom and understanding. In this section we will be looking at the
confidence that is gained through wisdom and understanding.
EXPOSITION:
21) My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and
discretion:
Living
a confident life of wisdom and understanding begins by:
1. Constant acknowledgment and consideration of the
principles of wisdom and understanding and the authority they hold over us.
2. Safeguarding wisdom and discretion by holding
their principles close to our heart (desires) and mind (thoughts) and conduct
(actions).
(note:
Wisdom is the application of God’s truths to our actions and lifestyles. Discretion is applying God’s truths to our
future plans and goals)
“And these words, which I command thee this
day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them
diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine
house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when
thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them
for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them
upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.” (Deuteronomy 6:6-9)
22) So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck.
The
results of retaining wisdom, understanding and discretion are:
1. eternal life with God which results in purpose
and meaning to our physical existence on earth.
Much like a healthy body which provides and enhances strength,
motivation and composure.
2. an appealing appearance to others through a
display of the fruits of the Spirit (kindness, graciousness, generosity and dependability
etc). Much like a necklace which
beautifies our appearance.
“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.” (Proverbs 3:1-4)
23) Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not
stumble.
When
we possess the certainty of eternal life, along with living a physical life of
purpose and of benefit to others, we can confidently expect to enjoy spiritual security
and physical safety. A wise life is
proof of our spiritual security in Christ and will help us to avoid many
pitfalls and troubles in this life that lead to physical harm and unrest.
“The steps of a [good] man are ordered by the
LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD
upholdeth [him with] his hand.” (Psalms 37:23-24)
24) When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie
down, and thy sleep shall be sweet
Living
a wise life also leads to a clear conscience before God and man. This, in turn, results in a confident and
peaceful earthly existence, knowing we are right with both God and those with
whom we have come into contact.
“I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep:
for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.” (Psalms 4:8)
SUMMARY:
The
experience of confidence in this physical life is a wonderful blessing given by
Almighty God. Just stop and think about
what a gift it is to know our eternity is secure in Him, our time of life on
earth has meaning and lasting value, and our actions are advantageous to others.
These
are just a few of the blessings that result from retaining wisdom,
understanding and discretion in our lives. May we all keep these Godly
principles in our hearts, minds and actions, and enjoy the fruit of confidence
and security that result from them.
By
God’s grace, let us all study these proverbs diligently, giving them the value
that they deserve.
May the
Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”.
