Proverbs 3:13-23

Value of wisdom

13 Happy are those who find wisdom and those who gain understanding.
14 Her profit is better than silver, and her gain better than gold.
15 Her value exceeds pearls; all you desire can't compare with her.
16 In her right hand is a long life; in her left are wealth and honor.
17 Her ways are pleasant; all her paths are peaceful.
18 She is a tree of life to those who embrace her; those who hold her tight are happy.
19 The LORD laid the foundations of the earth with wisdom, establishing the heavens with understanding.
20 With his knowledge, the watery depths burst open, and the skies drop dew.

Integrity of wisdom

21 My son, don't let them slip from your eyes; hold on to sound judgment and discretion.
22 They will be life for your whole being, and an ornament for your neck.
23 Then you will walk safely on your path, and your foot won't stumble.

Proverbs 3:13-23 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO PROVERBS 3

In this chapter, Wisdom, or Christ, delivers out some fresh lessons and instructions to his children; as not to forget his doctrine, but heartily attend to his precepts and ordinances, seeing these are the means of lengthening out their days, and of enjoying peace, Pr 3:1,2; as well as had the promise of the mercy and truth of God, and the continuance of them, annexed to them; and therefore are exhorted to keep close to them, and show the greatest value and affection for them, which was the way to find favour with, and to be taken notice of by, God and man, Pr 3:3,4; and then he proceeds to exhort them to a hearty trust in the Lord, without dependence on themselves; and to seek direction from him in every step they took, which they might expect to have, Pr 3:5,6; to humility and the fear of God, and fleeing from evil, which they would find would much contribute to their health, Pr 3:7,8; to liberality in supporting the worship of God, and the interest of religion, which would turn to account and profit to them, Pr 3:9,10; to patience in bearing the chastisement of the Lord, as coming from a loving father, Pr 3:11,12; then follows a commendation of wisdom, and the happiness of the man possessed of it is declared, Pr 3:13; from the profit, preciousness, pleasure, and usefulness of it, Pr 3:14-18; and from its concern in the works of creation and providence, Pr 3:19,20; and from that comfort, honour, safety, and security, which come by the doctrines and instructions of Wisdom, and a steady regard to them, Pr 3:21-26; and the chapter is concluded with exhortations to beneficence, charity, concord, and peace with neighbours, Pr 3:27-30; and to shun the ways of wicked men, urged from the different state and condition of wicked men and fools, and of the just, the lowly, and wise, Pr 3:31-35.

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