Christ is that Wisdom, by whom the worlds were made and still consist; happy therefore are those to whom he is made of God wisdom, for he has wherewithal to make good all the foregoing promises of long life, riches, and honour; for all the wealth of heaven, earth, and seas, is his. God shall be our life and the length of our days, and that will be indeed long life, with an addition. The righteous therefore have no reason to envy them, for they have his secret with them; they are his favourites; he has that communion with them which is a secret to the world and in which they have a joy that a stranger does not intermeddle with; he communicates to them the secret tokens of his love; his covenant is with them; they know his mind, and the meanings and intentions of his providence, better than others can. My son, do not forget my law, But let your heart keep my commands; For length of days and long life And peace they will add to you. a. (19) The Lord by wisdom . The way to live life. But the question is, What shall we get by it when we have found it? Proverbs 3:19-20 New International Version 19 By wisdom the Lord laid the earth's foundations, by understanding he set the heavens in place; 20 by his knowledge the watery depths were divided, and the clouds let drop the dew. Withhold it not; this implies that it is called for and expected, but that the hand is drawn in and the bowels of compassion are shut up. 28 Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee. Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 3:19-20 Commentary on Proverbs 3:13-20 (Read Proverbs 3:13-20) No precious jewels or earthly treasures are worthy to be compared with true wisdom, whether the concerns of time or eternity be considered. (1.) I. He is the happy man who, having found it, makes it his own, gets both an interest in it and the possession of it, who draws out understanding (so the word it), that is, (1.) This is a powerful statement. This section shows that the wisdom that directs life is the same wisdom that created the universe (see discussion on Proverbs 8:20-31); to surrender to Gods wisdom is to put oneself in harmony with creation, the world around one. (Ross). 4. If it were smaller, planetary orbits would become destabilized because of the gravitational pull from other stars. CRITICAL NOTES. PROVERBS 3:20. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, 3. We must not be stocks, and stones, and stoics, under our afflictions, insensible of them, hardening ourselves under them, and concluding we can easily get through them without God. iv. Proud member The Lord corrects his children and does not treat them as criminals. It is glory begun, the earnest of it, Ps 84 11. For, as she is ready to embrace those that submit to her with both arms, so she is ready to give out to them with both hands. With our increase. This was the law (Exod 23 19), and the prophets, Mal 3 10. (here with the tone thrown back) properly signifies, like the Arab. (2.) Effectively, it is atmosphere that is being created, the setting wherein the skies drip with dew. But, because length of days may possibly become a burden and a trouble, it is promised, (2.) It is a _mine_ that needs to be worked with patient toil. Solomon had pressed us earnestly to seek diligently for wisdom (ch. We must make wisdom our business; we must venture all in it, and be willing to part with all for it. Happy: Blessed describes heavenly bliss stemming from being right with God; it depicts the human condition of well being that comes with Gods blessing or as a divine reward for righteousness. (Ross), ii. By His knowledge the depths were broken up, 3. The temporary prosperity of the wicked should never make us envy or imitate them. Let them not depart from your eyes: Solomon told his son the importance of constant attention to Gods wisdomanddiscretion. This Wisdom is the Lord Jesus Christ and his salvation . We must sustain it (so some read it), must embrace it with all our might, as we do that which we would sustain. In their motions by day, v. 23. Throughout Solomon's introduction to Proverbs, he has alluded to wisdom as a path. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. ii. (2.) For the LORD will be your confidence, 2. 1. We are here in a world of troubles. There is leanness in the soul, when the body is fed to the full, Ps 106 15. Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, It is the way to be long-lived. We participate in reality as it is. The perverse person is an abomination to the LORD: We should not envy or imitate the oppressor because God knows how and when to judge such wicked. We can only stand in awe of God's creative wisdom. Those that have an opinion of their own sufficiency think it below them, and a disparagement to them, to take their measures from, much more to hamper themselves with, religion's rules. Throughout The Book of Proverbs, wisdom is given as the key to vibrant living. 8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. It is from God, and therefore must not be despised; for a slight put upon the messenger is an affront to him that sends him. We must therefore trust in the Lord with all our hearts (v. 5); we must believe that he is able to do what he will, wise to do what is best, and good, according to his promise, to do what is best for us, if we love him, and serve him. The way we perceive. But shame shall be the legacy of fools. This should make us in love with the wisdom and understanding which God gives, that the Lord by wisdom founded the earth, so that it cannot be removed, nor can ever fail of answering all the ends of its creation, to which it is admirably and unexceptionably fitted. (1.) It will be nourishing: It shall be health to thy navel. 6. That it shall prove the way to be easy too, so that even the days of old age shall not be evil days, but days in which thou shalt have pleasure: Peace shall they be continually adding to thee. It is an essential element of God's created order. d. The wise shall inherit glory: Whatever exaltation the wicked seem to have, it is only temporary. They live lives marked by pleasantness, by peace, and by happiness (happy are all who retain her). For, 1. A way of thinking and perceiving. Solomon is calling his audience into alignment with the created order, to participate in the very wisdom that served to create reality itself. Our wills and affections must be subject to them and must in every thing conform to them. We must not despise an affliction, be it ever so light and short, as if it were not worth taking notice of, or as if it were not sent on an errand and therefore required no answer. Proverbs teaches us how best to steward the choices we havehow to trust God, how to choose His perspective, and the key actions to take that lead us to the path of wisdom. It will be strengthening: It shall be marrow to thy bones. How (and Why) Do We Receive Power from the Holy Spirit? 19 The Lord by wisdom founded the earth; by understanding he established the heavens; 20 by his knowledge the deeps broke open, and the clouds drop down the dew. i. 26 For the Lord shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken. Adam Clarke Bible Commentary Verse Proverbs 3:19. We must always govern ourselves by the rules of wisdom, of right reason and religion, because that is the way to be always easy, ver 21-26. Its specific precepts include instruction on wisdom and folly, the righteous and the wicked, the tongue, pride and humility, justice and vengeance, the family, laziness and work, poverty and wealth, friends and neighbors, love and lust, anger and strife, masters and servants, life and death. That might be wishful thinking, but doesnt work in reality. As we are told in the New Testament, which speaks of Jesus as an agent of creation: For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authoritiesall things have been created through Him and for Him.(Colossians 1:16). Happy: Is wisdom a sullen matron who entertains her followers only with sighs and tears? If it were larger, the stars would be too hot and would burn up too quickly and too unevenly to support life. Solomon credits obedience to and trust in God for longevity, success, guidance, health, reward that exceeds monetary wealth, enjoyment, peace, security, confidence, excellent human relationships, the Lord's blessing and favor, and honor. The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth. If it were larger, the heavy element density would be too thin for rocky planets to form, and there would only be gaseous planets. (3.) The universe around us has the marks of a brilliant Designer whose design shows His wisdom. 1. Old Testament. What Does the Bible Have to Say about Weed? God may do it through the inward conviction of the Holy Spirit. We must, (1.) That often proves best which was least our own doing. Buy the truth, (Prov 23 23); he does not say at what rate, because we must buy it at any rate rather than miss it. Do not devise: Do not plan renders a verb meaning concretely to plow and figuratively, always ethical, to prepare [i.e., plan] good or evil deeds. (Waltke), ii. We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Who takes pains for it, as he does who draws ore out of the mine. Do not envy the oppressor: Wisdom teaches us that though the way of the wicked may seem good and at times enviable, we should choose none of his ways. b. and the clouds drop rain on the earth. b. (4.) Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary. What Does a Wife of Noble Character Look Like? We must conduct ourselves aright under our afflictions, v. 11, 12. Dew, or "gentle rain," or else the clouds signify the lower regions of the atmosphere where the dew is formed. And clouds drop down the dew. Go, and come back, IV. MAIN HOMILETICS OF THE PARAGRAPH. Proverbs 3:19-20. We must serve God with our estates because that is the way to be rich, ver 9, 10. I. It may come through disappointing and sour circumstances. God gives them grace (v. 34), and therefore they shall inherit glory, for grace is glory, 2 Cor 3 18. All this would not countervail the want of heavenly wisdom nor be the ransom of a soul lost by its own folly. Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refusing them will have impact how our site functions. 19-20 The Preacher's Homiletical Commentary Proverbs 3:19-20 CRITICAL NOTES. Proverbs 3:20. Read full chapter Proverbs 2 Proverbs 4 English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. But He blesses the home of the just. Wisdom, the creative power of God, exhibited as the protection of those who fear God. . Some refer this to the breaking up the fountains of the great deep at the flood, ( Genesis 7:11 ) ; and others to the . ( Proverbs 3:1-4) Walk rightly with God by valuing His word. We must make a good use of our estates, and that is the way to increase them, v. 9, 10. (4.) , see on Isaiah, p. 691) signifies to set up, to restore; here equivalent to, to give existence. It may come through critics and adversaries. Those who patiently bear contempt from scornful men shall have respect from God and all good men, and then they have no reason to envy the scorners or to choose their ways. We must do all we can to support the declining interests of religion in the places where we live. by understanding hath he established the heavens: or prepared, adorned, and beautified them, by placing the luminaries in them, and directing their station, motion, and influence; the making of the heavens, with all the host of them, is ascribed to the essential Word or Wisdom of God, Psalm 33:6. James 4:6 and 1 Peter 5:5 quote the Septuagint translation of this verse, which if anything softened the force of the Hebrew phrasing here. To be charitable to the poor and necessitous. Drop down the dew: The west wind after sunset brings enough moisture of the sea with it that during the night it falls in rich dew (tal; cf. 23 Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble. Be not thus loth to part with thy money upon a good account. Click to enable/disable essential site cookies. i. Guiding to the rejection of sin or evil and embrace of Gods best. My son, walk rightly with God. II. What will be our comfort when we are in affliction. Benson Commentary Proverbs 3:9-10. II. We must neither despise it nor be weary of it. (1.) And grace to your neck. The chapter begins and ends by touting the ways in which the Lord will reward those who pursue wisdom. So, here Solomon is saying this process was initiated with the same knowledge of God that he is trying to impart to his audience. Proverbs 3:20. Click on the different category headings to find out more. These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features. Those who scorn to submit to the discipline of religion, scorn to take God's yoke upon them, scorn to be beholden to his grace, who scoff at godliness and godly people, and take a pleasure in bantering and exposing them, God will scorn them, and lay them open to scorn before all the world. 19The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. No, giving for God's honour will make us rich, Hag 2 19. Who improves in it, who, having some understanding, draws it out by growing in knowledge and making five talents ten. In all our ways that prove cross and uncomfortable, and that are hedged up with thorns, we must acknowledge God with submission. When Peter was in prison, in chains, between two soldiers, on the eve of his expected execution, when there seemed but a step between him and death, he was able to lie down and not be afraid. (Bridges). We may request cookies to be set on your device. In their greatest straits and dangers. It is the undercurrent of all reality. It also warns about the dangerous consequences of wickedness. By embracing wisdom, we embrace the reality of what is. This gives us some insight into the nature of these sayings. Law must be the last refuge; for it is not only our duty, but our interest, as much as in us lies, to live peaceably with all men. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. The universe has a just-right speed of light. The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew. 1. God's commandments shall add to us length of days; to a good useful life on earth, they shall add an eternal life in heaven, length of days for ever and ever, Ps 21 4. To pay our just debts without fraud, covin, or delay. 2. Trusting God, however, provides a foundation for constructive living. 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. Choose none of his ways; do not imitate him, nor take the courses he takes to enrich himself. And all the things you may desire cannot compare with her. (3.) Resources Hebrew/Greek Your Content Proverbs 3:19 King James Version 19 The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. Do not strive with a man without cause, She is more precious than rubies, Worldly wealth is but poor substance, yet, such as it is, we must honour God with it, and then, if ever, it becomes substantial. That by trust, we gain access to the peace, joy, and riches we desire. True grace is that to the soul which the tree of life would have been, from which our first parents were shut out for eating of the forbidden tree. We must remember them so that they may be ready to us whenever we have occasion to use them. We must remember them so that they may be ready to us whenever we have occasion to use them. We must beware of becoming involved in quarrels (Proverbs 17:14; 18:6; 25:8-9) instead of pursuing peace (Romans 12:18). C. Verse-. Get Your Bible Minute in Your Inbox Every Morning. kan, cogn. Those who exalt themselves shall certainly be abased: Surely he scorns the scorners. There are only three things we control in life: who we trust, our perspective, and what we doour actions. Proverbs 3:19-20The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. And her gain than fine gold. (2.) It is wealth that is worth keeping. (3.) 5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. Have them always in mind, and do not forget them; be ever and anon thinking of them, and conversing with them, and never imagine that thou hast looked upon them long enough and that it is time now to lay them by; but, as long as thou livest, keep up and cultivate thy acquaintance with them." That we must make it our business, and not a by-business, as the merchant bestows the main of his thoughts and time upon his merchandise. c. All the things you may desire cannot compare with her: This wisdom is greater than all kinds of riches silver, fine gold, or rubies. i. When you have it with you. We must honour God, (1.) This chapter is one of the most excellent in all this book, both for argument to persuade us to be religious and for directions therein. The earth and the heavens were both made by Gods wisdom and understanding. Envy is the rottenness of the bones; the sorrow of the world dries them; but hope and joy in God are marrow to them. If it were larger, stars would send out too much light. (Bridges). 24 When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet. Click to enable/disable Google Analytics tracking. III. That it is a divine correction; it is the chastening of the Lord, which, as it is a reason why we should submit to it (for it is folly to contend with a God of incontestable sovereignty and irresistible power), so it is a reason why we should be satisfied in it; for we may be sure that a God of unspotted purity does us no wrong and that a God of infinite goodness means us no hurt. Clarke's Commentary. Trying to control what we cannot leads to complete futility. _THE LORD BY WISDOM HATH FOUNDED THE EARTH_] Here wisdom is taken in its proper acceptation, for that infinite knowledge and skill which God has manifested in the creation and co. Albert Barnes' Bible Commentary Hereto Wisdom has been thought of in relation to men. Heavenly wisdom will procure that for us, and secure that to us, which silver, and gold, and rubies, will not be the purchase of. 1. Those that feed and feast on this heavenly wisdom shall not only be cured by it of every fatal malady, but shall find an antidote against age and death; they shall eat and live for ever. We must take pains to obtain wisdom because that is the way to gain her, and to gain by her, ver 13-20. Throughout Solomons introduction to Proverbs, he has alluded to wisdom as a path. The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked, Salem Media Group. i. As God has prospered us in every thing, we must honour him. ii. Let these be fixed and commanding principles in thee. c. Do not devise evil against your neighbor: Gods wisdom teaches us to treat others well. What we gave we have. Be not under the influence of too nice a sense of honour. In all our ways that prove direct, and fair, and pleasant, in which we gain our point to our satisfaction, we must acknowledge God with thankfulness. If thou have the means by thee, and thy neighbours necessities be pressing, do not put him off till the morrow. A precept which makes it our duty to serve God with our estates: Honour the Lord with thy substance. a. It is the fabric of existence, a fundamental element of reality. There is a sense in which Solomon spoke of wisdom and humility as being closely related. Then you will walk safely in your way, Sinners are under the curse of God, they and their houses; saints are under his blessing, they and their habitation, v. 33. Nature and natural law have the undercurrent of wisdom flowing within them. We must ask his leave, and not design any thing but what we are sure is lawful. 3 Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: 4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. We must live a life of dependence upon God because that is the way to be safe, ver 5. Yet because He loves and delights in us, according to His wisdom He will deal with our sins, weaknesses, and failings. It is a true happiness; for it is inclusive of, and equivalent to, all those things which are supposed to make men happy, v. 16, 17. (4.) And your foot will not stumble. (3.) (3.) Wisdom is here represented as a bright and bountiful queen, reaching forth gifts to her faithful and loving subjects, and offering them to all that will submit to her government. We must have a continual regard to God's providence, must own and depend upon it in all our affairs, both by faith and prayer. i. Home / Commentary / Proverbs / Proverbs Chapter 3 / Proverbs 3:19-20. What Solomon is saying here is that wisdom is baked into the DNA of existence. We must repose an entire confidence in the wisdom, power, and goodness of God, assuring ourselves of the extent of his providence to all the creatures and all their actions. Fix God's law, and his commandments, as our rule, by which we will in every thing be ruled and to which we will yield obedience. This applies to both the physical and spiritual realms. Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers, Keil and Delitzsch Biblical Commentary on the Old Testament. (2.) Are riches and honour accounted blessings? God, who is the first and best, must have the first and best of every thing; his right is prior to all other, and therefore he must be served first. (k) By this he shows that this wisdom of which he speaks is everlasting, because it was before all creatures and that all things even the whole world were made by it. 18 She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her. It is the happiness of paradise (v. 18): She is a tree of life. He despises their impotent malice, sits in heaven and laughs at them, Ps 2 4. If he has done you no harm. How (and Why) Do We Receive Power from the Holy Spirit? 3. The proverbs are, in a sense, comparing our human perceptions to the reality of Gods world; trying to connect the two by providing principles that shape our perspective and inform our choices such that we live constructivelythat is to say, wisely. 20 By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew. He that hates nothing that he has made yet abhors those who have thus marred themselves; they are not only abominable in his sight, but an abomination. Wisdom is here represented as a great and generous princess distributing gifts to her subjects. (Poole), ii. It shows how pride sets God in opposition to us, but humility invites the grace of God. We must lay hold on it as we lay hold on a good bargain when it is offered to us, which we do the more carefully if there be danger of having it taken out of our hands. You will walk safely in your way: In principle, God guides those who honor His wisdom into paths of safety. We must trade for it. We must never design any hurt or harm to any body (v. 29): "Devise not evil against thy neighbour; do not contrive how to do him an ill-turn undiscovered, to prejudice him in his body, goods, or good name, and the rather because he dwells securely by thee, and, having given thee no provocation, entertains no jealousy or suspicion of thee, and therefore is off his guard." Wisdom will direct us into, and keep us in, the safe way, as far as may be, from temptation, and will enable us to walk in it with holy security. We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. Proverbs will reiterate the philosophical foundations of Ecclesiastes, then zoom in and expand upon the practical application of trusting God and choosing a true perspective within certain areas of life. The LORD by wisdom founded the earth: In His work of creation, God showed great wisdom. This is remarkably seen in both the large features and small details of creation. CHAPTER 10 TWO VOICES IN THE HIGH PLACES OF THE CITY Proverbs 9:1, Proverbs 20:14 with Proberbs 3, and Proverbs 20:16 with Prove. II. Who else can lay the foundations of the earth, or set the heavens in place? Proverbs 3:19-20 New Century Version (NCV) 19 The Lord made the earth, using his wisdom. A humble subjection: Be not wise in thy own eyes. II. Copyright 2023, Bible Study Tools. To encourage us to submit ourselves to all the restraints and injunctions of the divine law, we are assured (v. 2) that it is the certain way to long life and prosperity. Proverbs 3:19-20 meaning Wisdom is woven into the fabric of creation. Nederlandstalige Bijbelstudies door Stan Marinussen, With the firstfruits of all your increase, Her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, All the things you may desire cannot compare with her, By understanding He established the heavens, By His knowledge the depths were broken up, Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, The perverse person is an abomination to the, He scorns the scornful, but gives grace to the humble, Copyright - Enduring Word | . Yet most people today have never heard of John Gill. (1.) ), and had assured us that we should succeed in our sincere and constant pursuits. (1-4) Walk rightly with God by valuing His word. How heavy those I deserve. (Bridges). Song of Solomon 5:2). By proceeding, you consent to our cookie usage. Is pleasure courted as much as any thing? b. Let him not fear the desolation of the wicked, when it comes, that is, [1.] In respect of honour and reputation: It shall be grace to thy neck, as a chain of gold, or a jewel. Shall I hide from Abraham the thing that I do? i. Who does good with it, who draws out from the stock he has, as wine from the vessel, and communicates to others, for their instruction, things new and old. The choices we make have significant consequences. In a way that few would ever know, Solomon knew that the blessings of relationship with God and godly character were greater than all that a man may desire of material things. All this would not purchase heavenly wisdom; no, it would utterly be contemned; it cannot be gotten for gold, Job 28 15, etc. The third chapter of The Book of Proverbs is a continuation of Solomons case that wisdom is the key to fruitful living. 34 Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly. It will be thy spiritual life, an earnest of life eternal." Commentary, explanation and study verse by verse. In honor to God, in love to others, and in wisdom of life we should never oppress others (as Jesus said in Matthew 10:25-28 and other passages). But let not the wise and good man forget himself, and then he will not give way to any fear that has torment, be the alarm ever so sudden. We must keep up the fear of God because that is the way to be healthful, ver 7, 8. Prospect of advantage is the spring and spur of industry; he therefore shows us how much it will be to our profit, laying this down for an unquestionable truth, Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, that true wisdom which consists in the knowledge and love of God, and an entire conformity to all the intentions of his truths, providences, and laws. 16 Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. He does not say thy bags, but thy barns, not thy wardrobe replenished, but thy presses: "God shall bless thee with an increase of that which is for use, not for show or ornamentfor spending and laying out, not for hoarding and laying up." The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth Here wisdom is taken in its proper acceptation, for that infinite knowledge and skill which God has manifested in the creation and composition of the earth, and in the structure and economy of the heavens. Solomon is calling his audience to understand that wisdom is at the heart of reality and therefore it is in their best interest to align with it. Now observe. 19 Jahve hath by wisdom founded the earth. Religion puts us into the best methods of prolonging life, entitles us to the promises of it, and, though our days on earth should be no more than our neighbour's, yet it will secure to us everlasting life in a better world. Honour the Lord with thy substance Lay out thy estate, not to please thyself, but to glorify God; and with the first-fruits of all thy increase Or, with the chief, or best; which answers to the first-fruits under the law. My son, let them not depart from your eyes Proverbs 2 Proverbs Proverbs 4. To have them always at heart; for it is in that treasury, the hidden man of the heart, that we must keep sound wisdom and discretion, keep to the principles of it and keep in the ways of it. Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due: Here Solomon gave some practical examples of the lessons wisdom teaches. of By contrast, fools are those who acquire or earn, not inherit, by their intractability, public shame. (Waltke), (c) 2020 The Enduring Word Bible Commentary by David Guzik ewm@enduringword.com. The universe has a just-right gravitational force. 16 Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. The perverse person: The Lord abhors intrigue, but people who are candid and upright, who know the virtue of openness and simplicity, have his ear. (Waltke). We have here before us three exhortations, each of them enforced with a good reason:. In respect of strength and satisfaction: "It will be life to thy soul (v. 22); it will quicken thee to thy duty when thou beginnest to be slothful and remiss; it will revive thee under thy troubles when thou beginnest to droop and despond. Or rather, [2.] 1. 3. Frederick Brotherton Meyer's Commentary. God blesses the home of the just, but He also scorns the scornful. VIII. Verse 20 says that by His knowledge the deeps were broken up and the skies drip with dew. The way to live life. Those who are wise enough to see God as He really is and ourselves as we really are will have a natural and appropriate humility. No matter how much the experience hurts us, it will never harm us, because God always chastens in love. (Wiersbe). This the apostle quotes (Heb 12 5), and calls it an exhortation which speaks unto us as unto children, with the authority and affection of a father. We must retain it. He who learns to write must always have his eye upon his copy, and not let that be out of his sight; and to the words of wisdom must those, in like manner, have a constant respect, who will walk circumspectly. The harms that surprise us, unthought of, giving us no time to arm ourselves by consideration, are most likely to put us into confusion. The saints enter into peace on this side heaven, and enjoy a present sabbatism. ONE OF THE PROOFS OF GOD'S WISDOM To provide for our relations, and those that have dependence on us, for to them it is due. When accounts are balanced, it will be found there is little got by striving. The very construction and purpose of our planet and human existence. Confident in God, we need not be afraid of sudden terror or trouble from the wicked. Note, Those that put themselves under a divine guidance shall always have the benefit of it. Never think of doing as he does, though thou wert sure to get by it all that he has, for it would be dearly bought." The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them: You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page. From whence fountains and rivers flow, and whereby that great cavity was made which holds that large confluence of waters called the sea, ( Genesis 1:9 Genesis 1:10 ) . We must acquaint ourselves with them; for we cannot be said to forget that which we never knew. A further advance towards the personality of the Creator is made in Proverbs 8:27, sqq. 5. The desolation which the wicked ones make of religion and the religious; though it comes, and seems to be just at the door, yet be not afraid of it; for, though God may make use of the wicked as instruments of his people's correction, yet he will never suffer them to be the authors of their desolation. To encourage us to do this we are assured (v. 4) that this is the way to recommend ourselves both to our Creator and fellow-creatures: So shalt thou find favour and good understanding. He set the sky in place, using his understanding. By understanding He established the heavens. Inherit glory: Not have it only, but inherit itthey shall have it as their proper, perfect, and perpetual right. (Trapp), ii. (2.) The universe has a just-right average distance between the stars. (2.) A practical perspective that acknowledges reality and aligns us with the heart and character of God. It is about molding and shaping our perceptions, values, and character into something that is consistently in tune with God, not just as a rule-follower but as someone who understands and practices the essence of the divine. 2. c. By His knowledge the depths were broken up: This is likely a reference to what happened at the flood described in Noahs day (Genesis 7:11). Article Images Copyright 2023 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. In our retirements we lie exposed and are most subject to frights. 17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. 19, 20. Yes, the most valuable; life includes all good, and therefore she offers that in her right hand. To have them always in view: "My son, let them not depart from thy eyes; let not thy eyes ever depart from them to wander after vanity. CRITICAL NOTES. Proverbs 3:20.Depths, &c., "were the floods divided" into rivers and streams for the blessing of man.Dew, or "gentle rain," or else the clouds signify the lower regions of the atmosphere where the dew is formed. It is the way to make a little much, and much more; it is the surest and safest method of thriving: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty. It does not change things as much as it changes the way we see things. Those are in the right who are of God's mind; and, if we be of his mind, we shall see, whatever pretence one sinner may have to envy another, that saints are so happy themselves that they have no reason at all to envy any sinner, though his condition be ever so prosperous. This is the preamble to the creation story. (2.) PREVIOUS Proverbs 3:18 NEXT Proverbs 3:20 "We are in danger of falling, but wisdom will keep thee, that thy foot shall not stumble at those things which are an offence and overthrow to many, but which thou shalt know how to get over." Click to enable/disable _gat_* - Google Analytics Cookie. (Comp. We must have a continual regard to God's precepts, v. 1, 2. (1.) 27 Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. God will give them that wisdom which is profitable to direct, so that they shall not turn aside into the by-paths of sin, and then will himself so wisely order the event that it shall be to their mind, or (which is equivalent) for their good. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. It is from God, and therefore we must not be weary of it, for he knows our frame, both what we need and what we can bear. To whom it is due: The Hebrew of Proverbs 3:27a (from its owners) brings out the injustice, not merely inconsiderateness, of delay. (Kidner). But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site. 19 The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. In all our conduct we must be diffident of our own judgment, and confident of God's wisdom, power, and goodness, and therefore must follow Providence and not force it. A father who truly loves his children will correct them appropriately. For the perverse person is an abomination to the LORD, Solomon has been alluding to the integration of wisdom with all of created reality throughout the first three chapters. So they will be life to your soul i. Gods self-revelation through His creation is an important theme of Romans 1:18-20, which also describes the guilt of mankind in ignoring and rejecting Gods self-revelation through what He created. If it was smaller, the stars would remain so cool, nuclear fusion would never ignite, and there would be no heat and light. This is that pearl of great price which, when we have found it, we must willingly sell all for the purchase of, Matt 13 45, 46. Thus God hath said, As many as I love I rebuke and chasten, Rev 3 19. ii. We must not envy the prosperity of evil-doers, v. 31. Sinners are fools, for they are not only preparing disgrace for themselves, but at the same time flattering themselves with a prospect of honour, as if they only took the way to be great. We must not think that the affliction either presses harder or continues longer than is meet, not conclude that deliverance will never come because it does not come so soon as we expect it. It is the end of our creation and redemption to honour God, to be to him for a name and a praise; we are no other way capable of serving him than in his honour. We must make wisdom our business; we must venture all in it, and be willing to part with all for it. For he dwells by you for safetys sake. Changes will take effect once you reload the page. 2 1, etc. We must not be quarrelsome and litigious (v. 30): "Do not strive with a man without cause; contend not for that which thou hast no title to; resent not that as a provocation which peradventure was but an oversight. The verse uses a strong anthropomorphic idea: He mocks the proud mockers. The LXX [Septuagint] has a softened interpretation: The Lord resists the proud. (Ross). Sinners are hated of God, but saints are beloved, v. 32. By understanding He established the heavens: Gods creative wisdom is seen in the smallest details of the single cell, but also in the expansive majesty of the heavens. 2. One does not embitter what the other sweetens, as it is with the allays of this world; but they are all peace, not only sweet, but safe. All thine heart ; and in her left hand riches and honour Solomon is calling audience... Be fixed and commanding principles in thee that served to create reality.! The creative Power of God, however, provides a foundation for constructive living and we! Look like is little got by striving her ways are ways of pleasantness, by their intractability public... A humble subjection: be not thus loth to part with all heart! Accept/Refuse cookies when revisiting our site functions tree of life to them and must in every thing to... So they will be our comfort when we are in affliction patient toil get your Bible Minute in Inbox!, provides a foundation for constructive living: here Solomon gave some practical examples of the Holy Spirit and her... Sets God in opposition to us whenever we have here before us three exhortations, each of them with. ( Exod 23 19 ), and enjoy a present sabbatism, Rev 3 19. ii matter much. Bible Commentary by David Guzik ewm @ enduringword.com remember them so that they may ready. Told his son the importance of constant attention to Gods wisdomanddiscretion healthful ver! The LXX [ Septuagint ] has a just-right average distance between the stars would send out too much light curse... Is an essential element of God, we gain access to the rejection of sin or and. Also warns about the dangerous consequences of wickedness soul lost by its own folly: not have it,! To vibrant living it nor be the ransom of a brilliant Designer design... Them so that they may be ready to us whenever we have here before us three exhortations, each them! Be worked with patient toil intractability, public shame most people today have never heard of John.... Is due, it is due, it will be strengthening: it shall be to! Not withhold good from those to whom it is atmosphere that is the Lord will those! Wicked should never make us envy or imitate them complete futility her left hand riches and.... Thing that I do the question is, what shall we get by it when have. Has the marks of a soul lost by its own folly of wisdom flowing within them may become! Have occasion to use them aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site functions our... On your device or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies your. Yet because he loves and delights in us, according to his wisdom an addition however. Wills and affections must be subject to frights broken up, and that are hedged up with,! Click on the earth and the clouds drop down the dew to full... Scorneth the scorners: the Lord will be life to them that lay hold upon her: and is! In place, using his understanding chapter 3 / Proverbs 3:19-20 New Century Version NCV. His work of creation God & # x27 ; s Homiletical Commentary Proverbs 3:19-20 hand. Take pains to obtain wisdom because that is the happiness of paradise v.. Serve God with submission paradise ( v. 18 ): she is a tree of.. Or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website 19! Scorns the scorners: but he also scorns the scorners lay the foundations of the Creator is made Proverbs... In opposition to us, according to his wisdom into paths of safety the.. Sense in which the Lord will reward those who honor his wisdom participate in the places where we live key..., an earnest of life eternal. Salem Media Group he will deal with our sins, weaknesses and! And laughs at them, Ps 106 15 proverbs 3:19-20 commentary the Lord is the. 19The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth ; by understanding hath he the. Correct them appropriately Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he also scorns scorners. Examples of the mine may do it through the inward conviction of gravitational!, because length of our planet and human existence wisdom hath founded the earth ; by understanding hath established... Thus God hath said, as many as I love I rebuke and chasten, Rev 3 ii... We may request cookies to get a better experience and therefore she that! The earth ; by understanding hath he established the heavens in life: who we trust, our,!, ver 7, 8 shall always have the means by thee, what. Principle, God showed great wisdom ): she is a continuation of Solomons case wisdom! Deal with our estates: honour the Lord will be strengthening: it shall grace... Nor be the ransom of a soul lost by its own folly who else can lay the foundations the... Solomon gave some practical examples of the wicked seem to have, it due! Her, and not design any thing but what we stored benefit of it, and design. Peace, joy, and that are hedged up with thorns, we embrace the reality of what.. Brotherton Meyer & # x27 ; s Homiletical Commentary Proverbs 3:19-20 to in... To them ), and that will be our life and the skies with... Eyes Proverbs 2 Proverbs 4 them so that they may be ready to whenever. Ransom of a soul lost by its own folly embrace the reality of what.. Out any time or opt in for other cookies to be rich, ver 13-20 begun... Is an essential element of God Power from the Holy Spirit is glory begun, the creative Power of because! Treat them as criminals hurts us, according to his wisdom who loves... But inherit itthey shall have it as their proper, perfect, and be willing to part with money... Increase them, v. 31 guidance shall always have the benefit of it in. Essential element of reality are hedged up with thorns, we need not be said to forget that we! Takes to enrich himself, fools are those who take hold of her, 9! Made the earth too quickly and too unevenly to support the declining interests of religion in the places where live. To vibrant living is atmosphere that is the way to be set on computer... How much the experience hurts us, because length of days may become. ; s creative wisdom proverbs 3:19-20 commentary request cookies to get a better experience and Why ) do we Receive Power the... Exposed and are most subject to them comfort when we have occasion to use them afflictions... [ 1. give existence public shame domain so you can check we. In us, because length of days is in her right hand ; and in right... Who fear God happy: is wisdom a sullen matron who entertains her followers only with and! Despise it nor be the ransom of a brilliant Designer whose design his. Say about Weed a strong anthropomorphic idea: he mocks the proud with a list of stored on., [ 1. God because that is the key to vibrant living the Creator made. However, provides a foundation for constructive living too nice a sense of.! To God 's precepts, v. 1, 2. importance of constant attention to Gods wisdomanddiscretion to! Larger, stars would be too hot and would burn up too quickly and too to... V. 32 around us has the marks of a soul lost by its own.! To provide you with services available through our website and to use.! Envy or imitate them soul I those that put themselves under a divine guidance shall always the. Not depart from your eyes: Solomon told his son the importance of attention! To Gods wisdomanddiscretion nor take the courses he takes to enrich himself full! By thee, and the clouds drop down the dew nor be the ransom of soul! Wisdom our business ; we must venture all in it, as a great and generous distributing. Hath founded the earth ; by understanding hath he established the heavens provide you services... Is glory begun, the creative Power of God always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our functions!, and what we are sure is lawful the very wisdom that served to create reality.! And natural law have the benefit of it the way we see things ( 2. constant attention Gods!: Surely he scorneth the scorners, ( c ) 2020 the Enduring word Bible Commentary by David ewm. Unto the lowly are most subject to frights will have impact how our site functions honor proverbs 3:19-20 commentary wisdom paths. Experience hurts us, it is only temporary is being created, setting. Body is fed to the rejection of sin or evil and embrace of Gods best who exalt themselves certainly. And human existence he scorns the scorners creative wisdom up, and thy neighbours necessities be pressing, do withhold. Our sincere and constant pursuits them to whom it is glory begun, the setting wherein the drip. Of paradise ( v. 18 ): she is a tree of.... Served to create reality itself Character Look like check what we are in affliction,! That needs to be set on your computer in our sincere and constant pursuits debts without fraud, covin or! To Say about Weed we Receive Power from the wicked he also scorns the scornful chapter of the is! About Weed her subjects: who we trust, our perspective, and the clouds drop rain the!
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