Proverbs: The Art of Wise LivingSample

Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.— Proverbs 3:3–4

Reflection: At first glance, portions of Proverbs 3 seem to promise an abundant, successful life to those who follow sound teaching and instruction. The verses seem to indicate that good things will happen as long as you act a certain way:

• “Let love and faithfulness never leave you...Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.”
• “Trust in the LORD...in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
• “Do not be wise in your own eyes...This will bring health to your body.”
• “Honor the LORD with your wealth...then your barns will be filled to overflowing.”

Do these statements imply that we should expect “favor,” “a good name,” “health,” etc. to be given to us, as long as we follow the teachings in the Bible and practice wisdom? But that begs the question, why do bad things still happen to people who lead God-honoring lives?

At face value, these verses appear to support a works-based faith (where your external actions secure your salvation, rather than your inner belief in God). But we know that God’s only prerequisite for salvation is faith, not works. So what do these verses actually mean?

We can look in prayerful anticipation of God’s blessings and thank Him for what He’s already done, without an immediate expectation of receiving them (or trying to assume that they will look a certain way).

Yet, this is so hard sometimes. That’s why it’s so important to constantly remind ourselves of the very things that are so difficult to practice and remember: love, faithfulness, wisdom, kindness, and self-control. Let’s pray and ask God for His wisdom.

Prayer: Lord, I know I so often fall short of following Your commands. Remind me of the importance of wisdom, love, and faithfulness when I forget, and show me what it means to have a pure heart — not doing the right thing to gain favor, but to bless others and share Your abundant love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.