Proverbs 3

Read Proverbs 3:1 – 10. Verses 5 – 6 are often quoted as a form of reassurance by those who are uncertain about which course to choose in life. If we are uncertain about which school to attend, career to pursue, or person to marry, we can read promises into these verses. We understand them to mean, “If I trust God, He will tell me which choice to make, either overtly or by giving me a strong desire for one.” Unfortunately, this interpretation takes these verses out of their context and misses their main point.[1]

Chapter Three is all about releasing our sense of autonomy and self-determination, and accepting that God’s ways are better than ours. Solomon gave his son five admonitions about his relationship with God. Don’t forget what I’ve taught you (v. 1 – 2). Keep faithfulness and love close (v. 3 – 4). Trust God’s ways (v. 5 – 6). Don’t trust your own wisdom (v. 7 – 8). Honor God with everything you have (v. 9 – 10). Each admonition has a benefit to it, but we can only experience those benefits if we pursue wisdom out of a desire to follow God, not out of a desire to receive the benefits themselves. Which of the admonitions of Solomon is the most difficult for you to follow in your life today?

Read Proverbs 3:11 – 20. We are challenged not to despise or resent God’s discipline. Here, “discipline” is best translated as instruction, not punishment or suffering. Many of us hear God’s instruction, but think of it as archaic or impractical for the world in which we live, and choose not to follow it. Yet God created and fine-tuned this world in which we live (v. 19 – 20), and designed the principles which are at play right now. To despise or resent His loving instruction eventually leads to an unraveling of our lives. Which biblical instruction is the most difficult for you to accept? Why do you fear following it?

Read Proverbs 3:21 – 33. Verses 27 – 31 contain prohibitions for our behavior toward others. Don’t withhold good (v. 27). Don’t defer promises (v. 28). Don’t plan harm (v. 29). Don’t falsely accuse (v. 30). Don’t envy the wicked (v. 31). These verses, in parallel with Verses 1 - 10, show that wise living and its blessings come from being in right relationship with both God and others. If either relationship is out of balance, so is life. Verses 5 – 6 say, “Trust in the Lord… submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Believe that God’s instruction is best and take action by following it. He will lead you into the life that will bring glory to Him and fullness to you.

Consider the area in which you are least likely to trust God’s instruction. What one action could you do to grow in trust in that area? Ask God to help you trust Him there.