Wisdom, understanding and discernment; how very important for God's people!  We looked at chapter 2 of Proverbs last week and chapter 3 goes on to tells us of the further benefits of wisdom. We see that the father is still speaking to his son and his words are meant for each of us as well!

"My son do not forget my teaching,
But keep my commandments in your heart." Vs. 1 *Why?
"For they will prolong your life many years And bring you prosperity." Vs. 2

Then he admonishes his son as to his conduct:
*To love and be faithful:
"Let love and faithfulness never leave you, Bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart."
*The result beings:
"Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man."
Vs. 3-4  (See Ephesians 5:1-2)

*To trust and fear the Lord:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight.
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
Fear the Lord and shun evil." Vs 5-7
*The result,
"This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones." Vs. 8 (See Proverbs 1:7)

*To honor the Lord with the supply He has given:
"Honor the Lord with your wealth,
With the first fruits of all your crops;" Vs. 9 *The result, "Then your barns will be filled to overflowing, And your vats will brim over with new wine." Vs. 10 (See Malachi 3:10)

*To accept the Lord's discipline as His very best for him:
"My son do not despise the Lord's discipline And do not resent His rebuke, Because the Lord disciplines those He loves, As a father the son he delights in." Vs. 11-12 (See Hebrews 12:5-11)

*Those who find wisdom and understanding are truly blessed!
"Blessed is the man who finds wisdom,
The man who gains understanding," Vs. 13 (See James 1:5-6)

*Finding and holding on to wisdom is the greatest treasure:
She is more profitable that silver
And yields better returns than gold.
She is more precious than rubies;
Nothing you desire can compare with her.
Long life is in her right hand;
And in her left hand are riches and honor.
Her ways are pleasant ways,
And all her paths are peace.
She is a tree of life to those who embrace her; Those who lay hold of her will be blessed." Vs. 14-18

The Book of Proverbs deals with the prevention and the remedy of ungodly lifestyles. It is to impart wisdom, understanding, discretion, knowledge, guidance, correction, counsel and truth through all generations.
For this reason, it would be well for each of us to independently look more closely at the whole of Proverbs.

How blessed we are to have the written word of God, it has the answers to life! And we thank you Lord for your loving care and for all your provisions to live a godly life here on earth. Amen