Proverbs 3:18-28

18 [Wisdom] is a tree of life for those who take firm hold of it. Those who cling to it are blessed.

19 By Wisdom the LORD laid the foundation of the earth. By understanding he established the heavens.

20 By his knowledge the deep waters were divided, and the skies dropped dew.

21 My son, do not lose sight of these things. Use priceless wisdom and foresight.

22 Then they will mean life for you, and they will grace your neck.

23 Then you will go safely on your way, and you will not hurt your foot.

24 When you lie down, you will not be afraid. As you lie there, your sleep will be sweet.

25 Do not be afraid of sudden terror or of the destruction of wicked people when it comes.

26 The LORD will be your confidence. He will keep your foot from getting caught.

27 Do not hold back anything good from those who are entitled to it when you have the power to do so.

28 When you have the good thing with you, do not tell your neighbor, "Go away! Come back tomorrow. I'll give you something then."

Proverbs 3:18-28 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.