The Value of Wisdom in Producing Health

Commentary

We are to pay attention to what the author says (v. 20). We are not to let his words depart from our eyes but let them penetrate deep within our heart (v. 21). They will bring life to anyone who discovers their meaning (v. 22). Our heart is to be kept with all diligence (v. 23). We are to guard our heart with all diligence, “for out of it spring the issues of life.” The heart is enclosed in a sac embedded in the lungs and protected by the ribs. Just as the creator provided physical protection for our heart, we must guard our thoughts. The heart includes more than an emotional or mental capacity, but it encompasses one’s values. Therefore, the heart is to be protected because out from it comes our actions, our values our goals and our desires. It is only when the heart is controlled by Scripture that a person can be assured of being able to walk in the truth. That is the reason each believer should have his eyes (v. 25) focused on the path (v. 11) which comes from God and His Word.

Not only are we to protect the heart but also the mouth, the eyes and the feet. The believers’ conduct should be above reproach. Corrupt or foul talk should never come out of our mouth. Our eyes should focus on the goal just as a farmer opens a field and makes a straight furrow as he plows toward a distant point. Our feet should not turn to the right or the left but straight forward in the paths of righteousness (vv. 26-27).

Application

Proverbs 23:7 declares that as a man "thinks in his heart, so is he." This is why it is so important that I have control over my thought life.