Proverbs 3
by Pastor David Groendyk

As Pastor Mark mentioned, the book of Proverbs is all about wisdom: what it looks like, where it comes from, and what value it is to us. Chapters 1–9 portray a father pleading with his son to follow it. Chapter 10 through the end of the book are the practical, pithy statements that we all know and love to memorize. Chapter 3 is still in the section that introduces what wisdom and foolishness are, and it seeks to convince us of the value of wisdom.

Verses 5–6 might be very familiar to you, but let’s take a closer look at them, because they really summarize the whole chapter for us. “Understanding” in verse 5 means “perception of the right course of action.” Verse 5 is saying, “Don’t trust what you perceive to be the right course of action, but trust what God says is the right course of action.” In other words, do what is godly rather than what is practical. Do what is Scriptural rather than what “works.” Why? Because it honors the Lord (v. 9), and it is a blessing for us (v. 13). It is so easy for us to do what’s practical rather than what’s godly, isn’t it? For instance, how often do we use our money for ourselves first and then give to the Lord what’s left over (vv. 9–10)? Or how often do we choose anger and threatening over gentleness and peace (v. 31)? While those things feel good in the moment or, practically-speaking, help us get things done, they are not godly behavior or godly wisdom, and they do not lead to God’s blessing.

At the core, following God’s wisdom is a question of humility (vv. 34–35). Will you turn over the reins of your life fully to God, or will you keep one hand on the wheel? Will you follow God’s wisdom, God’s morality, and God’s commands even if it means missing out on earthly treasure and recognition? Will you seek silver and gold, or will you seek God’s favor and blessing? Will you seek earthly security or heavenly security (vv. 21–23)?