Wisdom: The Principle ThingSample

Five Ways We Can Experience Growth

Of the 31 chapters of Proverbs, chapter 3 is probably one of the most quoted chapters in the book. Proverbs 3:5 has become a staple for what you would call “coffee cup” verses—placed on items, hung on our walls, and in various places to remind us to trust the Lord. While this is one of my favorite personal verses, I believe without the study of the whole text, the verse in itself can become stale and even misconstrued.

This chapter is a beautiful letter which begins with the words "my son". This shows us that this portion of Scripture isn’t necessarily a command, but it is written out of a deep, personal love for the recipient. It is a divinely inspired love letter, not only written to this recipient, but meant for us as well. The words of Scripture are deeply personal, and they are meant to be bathed with a tone of compassion and of wisdom of someone who lives out the words on the paper.

Proverbs 3 is a goldmine of wisdom.  If we stop at verse 3:5, we miss out on so much more wisdom that was penned thousands of years ago. God’s wisdom is practical, and God’s wisdom is a treasure. Never lose sight of it—memorize His word, allow yourself to grow, and remember to treat others in a manner reflective of children of God. The Lord is faithful, and His Word endures forever.