Daily Proverbs - Proverb 3:2

The wealthiest man who ever lived wrote the proverbs. He must've known something! Although the Bible was written millenia ago, its contents actually are applicable and beneficial today. When eternal principals and laws (not talking about the ten commandments when I write "law" here. I am referencing governing systems that are alive, whether we know it or not! I believe Solomon understood these "laws".) are honored, your life will benefit, even if you don't adhere to the Judaeo-Christian beliefs contained in the rest of the Bible.

Conveniently, there are 31 Proverbs - one for each day of the month, no matter what month! I begin this journey on May 3rd, hence, will begin with Proverb 3 - not the entire proverb, rather a bullet from the chapter.

Unless otherwise noted, all scripture is from the Holman Christian Study Bible; all Hebrew/Greek/Aramaic references are from Strong's Concordance; all English definitions and word roots are according to Merriam-Webster.

My son, don't forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commands; for they will bring you many days, a full life, and well-being. - Proverb 3:1-2

Many times people approach the Bible horizontally, meaning, they only read it at face value and do not "dig" deeper. I prefer reading vertically: study the original language and its meaning because the languages of the Bible (Hebrew, Greek, Aramaic) are much richer than English. One word in any of these original languages often require multiple words and entire phrases to explain in English. Hence, my desire to go a little further.

For example, the original Hebrew word "labe" is translated "heart" in this passage. "Labe" actually means: the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the centre of anything.

What the author is saying in this verse, I believe, is that when we study the wisdom found in the Bible and use it as the center, or a sounding board, for our lives - any and every part of it - the results are: many days, a full life, and well-being.

The trouble is, again, often people don't take the time to study in context what scripture is saying. The deeper I study, the more freedom I find, and power. The wisdom and principles tucked in the proverbs are effective when understood and applied. The "laws" are applied whether we understand it or not: just look at gravity. Just because someone doesn't understand about gravity does not mean Grandma's crystal bowl won't break when dropped five feet onto ceramic tile.

Often, inexplicable tragedy occurs, or we just can't seem to get out of a rut. Little do we know, daily decisions and actions from yesterday and yesterdays framed our world today. The good news is, it's not too late to change the next minute, hour, day, week and your future.

An example of wisdom: Maintain your competence and discretion (boy, I wish I had hidden that one in my heart in my early twenties!), My son, don't lose sight of them (I had!). They will be life for you and adornment for your neck. (They had been, then I lost sight of them) Then you will go safely on your way; your foot will not stumble.

Think about it. Many mistakes of inexperience is lack of discretion, or not being competent in what you do. How much would be avoided had competence and discretion been employed?

Creator of the Universe,

I ask You to show Your wisdom to me. I ask that only Truth guide me. Teach me competence and discretion. Help me to know Your wisdom and that my decisions be based on the wisdom of the One who designed the Universe and all of its complex systems, from the cell to a solar system. I trust the laws of the Universe to honor my life as I honor You. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Thank you for coming by and reading my hub! I welcome your comments and suggestions!