Exhortations to Obedience
July 23, 2022
Commentary
Jesus had a lot to say about what we value, what we allow to rob value from us, and what we should really value. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matt. 6:21). “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matt 6:34). “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” (Matt. 7:21).
Solomon, like Jesus, was interested in providing guidance towards the best life imaginable for his readers. With the revelation Solomon had available to him in his day, the best life imaginable belonged to those who valued and meditated on the Law of God. The same is true for us today, but we have the perfect Law of God in the person of Jesus Christ, in the complete Holy Scriptures, & in the indwelling Holy Spirit. It is with this mindset that we should ready Proverbs 3:1-8.
If long life and peace are your desire, then keep God’s Law in your heart (vv. 1-2). If you desire steadfast love and faithfulness from God, then bind His Law around your neck & write it upon your heart (v. 3). Then you will find Grace and Success before God and man (v. 4). Who talks like that? People who recognize the true value of a relationship with Jesus and his word. In other words, it is only the humble person who would talk that way about their Lord. Humility means trusting God with ALL your heart, not part of it, leaning on His understanding, not your own (v. 5), acknowledging his touch on every aspect of your life, and allowing him to make the way forward straight and clear (v. 6). This way of living flies in the face of our sin nature. We are all naturally the wisest in our own estimations (v. 7). But what we need most is to turn from evil and fear the Lord, allowing him to heal and refresh us (v. 8).
Application
Forget about all the exceptions for a minute and ask yourself, “Is my life characterized by longevity, peace, steadfast love, faithfulness, trust, clear direction, and healing?” Based on this passage, what do you need to do?
Proverbs 3:1– 8 (NET)
1 My child, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments,
2 for they will provide a long and full life, and well-being for you.
3 Do not let mercy and truth leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.
4 Then you will find favor and good understanding, in the sight of God and people.
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding.
6 Acknowledge him in all your ways, and he will make your paths straight.
7 Do not be wise in your own estimation; fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
8 This will bring healing to your body, and refreshment to your inner self.