Proverbs 3
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16, 17. Wisdom personified as bringing the best blessings (compare Matthew 6:33 , 1 Timothy 4:8 ).
17. Her ways--such as she directs us to take.
18. Wisdom allegorized as
a tree of life--( Genesis 2:9 , 3:22 ) whose fruit preserves life, gives all that makes living a blessing.
19, 20. The place of wisdom in the economy of creation and providence commends it to men, who, in proportion to their finite powers, may possess this invaluable attribute, and are thus encouraged by the divine example of its use to seek its possession.
21. sound wisdom--(compare Proverbs 2:7 ).
let . . . eyes--that is, these words of instruction.
22-24. assign reasons in their value for happiness and ornament, guidance and support in dangers, both when waking and sleeping.
25. Be not--or, "You shall not be."
sudden fear--what causes it ( Proverbs 1:27 ), any unlooked-for evil ( Psalms 46:3 , 91:12 , 1 Peter 3:14 ).
desolation--( Proverbs 1:27 ).
26. The reason; such as are objects of God's favor.
be thy confidence--literally, "in thy confidence," in the source of thy strength (compare Nahum 3:9 , for the same construction, Hebrew).
27, 28. Promptly fulfil all obligations both of justice and charity (compare james 2:15 james 2:16 ).
29, 30. Do not abuse confidence and avoid litigation.
31. oppressor--or man of mischief. The destiny of successful evildoers warns against desiring their lot ( Psalms 37:1 Psalms 37:2 Psalms 37:35 Psalms 37:36 ).
32-35. Reasons for the warning.
froward--( Proverbs 2:15 ).
secret . . . righteous--in their communion ( Amos 3:7 ).
33. curse . . . wicked--It abides with them, and will be manifested.
34. The retribution of sinners, as in Psalms 18:26 .
35. inherit--as a portion.
shame--or disgrace, as opposed to honor.
promotion--(Compare Margin); as honor for well-doing makes men conspicuous, so fools are signalized by disgrace.