Proverbs 1:33/NIV
“… whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.
Chapter 1 of the book of Proverbs identifies Solomon, the son of David, King of Israel, as its author. The book provides wisdom, instruction, understanding, and insight. Applying this wisdom and the fear of the Lord is a power-packed exercise that will enable us to live lives of blessing and contentment even amid the world’s troubles.
Embracing God’s wisdom will cause us to live securely, without worry of being harmed. This confidence is possible because those of us who acknowledge, respect, and submit to the Lord will be taught the paths we should take. Psalm 25:12 asks us, ” Who then are those who fear the Lord? He will instruct them in the ways they should choose.” Not only that, but verse 13 says, “They will spend their days in prosperity; and their descendants will inherit the land.”
Receiving the Lord’s counsel, we can walk safely knowing the Creator of the Universe lovingly, responsibly, and reliably cares for His own. “They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord. Their hearts are secure; they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes (Psalm 112:7-8).
Isn’t that great news we can depend on in these extreme days? The choice is ours. Proverbs 9:12 tells us, “If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you; if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer.” If we fail to find wisdom, we’ll harm ourselves, and Proverbs 8:36 warns us that those who hate it actually love death.
Thankfully, those of us who are blessed to find wisdom find “life and receive favor from the Lord” (Proverbs 8:35). Furthermore, Proverbs 9:6 tells us that if we leave our own “simple ways,” we will live; “walk in the way of insight.” Simple ways denotes being naive, inexperienced, easily misled, or lacking discernment. Insight? The Hebrew word is bina or tebuna, meaning the practical, discerning ability to distinguish right from wrong and navigate life according to God’s design.
We’re on the right track if we truly fear the Lord. Proverbs 9:10 tells us it’s the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
