How we relate to God’s commands and promises will grow our lives in Him
Scripture: Proverbs 4:5-8, 13
Lately in my studies I have desired to learn more about God’s wisdom for my life. There is an interesting passage that I came across recently which presents a perspective I have not thought about regarding gaining wisdom and understanding. That scripture is found in Proverbs 4:5-8, 13.
Proverbs 4:5-8, 13 (NASB) 5 Acquire wisdom! Acquire understanding! Do not forget nor turn away from the words of my mouth. 6 “Do not forsake her, and she will guard you; Love her, and she will watch over you. 7 “The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; And with all your acquiring, get understanding. 8 “Prize her, and she will exalt you; She will honor you if you embrace her.
13 Take hold of instruction; do not let go. Guard her, for she is your life.
“Aquire Wisdom, Get Understanding” Obey His ways
There are 6 commands in this passage that I believe that we as Christians are taught to follow that will bring us closer to acquiring wisdom and gaining knowledge:
1: Do not Forget her (v5)
2: Do not Forsake her (v6)
3: Love her (v6)
4: Prize her (v7)
5: Embrace her (v8)
6: Guard her (v13)
Do not forget her!
The interpretation can be read as *”It is so important to remember that of all things remember God’s ways.” We need also to keep in mind the promises He has made to those who remember His ways and obey them.
Do not Forsake her!
The translation appears to mean *”Do not leave behind.” Solomon is reminding us of the critical importance to always remember God’s teachings. He is reminding us to stay on the path God has set for us. Don’t turn left or right, but stay on the straight path. Most importantly, do not abandon His truth and His ways.*Strongs Concordance H7911
Love her!
We need to Love God’s teachings and His ways. We are to *”Desire, Breathe after and be so inclined for His ways.” I believe it calls us to a higher level of passion for Him and His Word. Just as “The Deer pants for water so my soul longs after you, O God” (Psalm 42:1), we too should have a deep longing for His words. If we love Him, He will watch over us. We are His children and He longs to protect and care for us!
*Strongs Concordance H157
Prize her!
We are to revere her, *”literally to exalt, esteem highly.” His Word should be so valuable that nothing is more important. If we obey God’s ways, wisdom will “cause to raise or rear (children), cause to grow up” (Polel) God shows His tender mercies to raise His children and mature them. Oh that we would listen and grow in Him! *Strongs Concordance H5549
Embrace Her!
We are to desire it so much that we *”clasp and hold firmly in our arms.” Just as we hold our loved ones so tightly, we are to hold on to the teachings that wisdom provides to us. I remember when my oldest son graduated from US Army Boot Camp grabbing him and holding on to him so tightly. I didn’t want to let go. That same way is how I believe I am to treasure and hold on to God’s ways. *Strongs Concordance H2263
Guard her!
The Hebrew word is *Natsar. The Greek is Kustodia or “custodian”. The impression that many scholars and theologians seem to consider in this tense is to “To receive and take charge of and guard even to the point of danger”. God’s ways are to be held to the highest level and to be followed at all costs as it is that important to our lives! “Guard her for she is your life.” (V13)
*Strongs Concordance H5341
I also cherish the promises God gives to us if we follow these few commands!
He will:
- Guard You
- Watch Over You
- Give You Understanding
- Exalt and honor you
“For she is your life” – She meaning the wisdom of God.
As I read this passage and apply it to my life, I am in awe of Him beyond measure of His love for me. But this gift and the gift of salvation through His Son Jesus Christ is available for all mankind. (Rom 10:8-13)
I hope that in my life I will never forget, not forsake and always love His ways. I pray that I will be able to prize, embrace and guard those teachings in my life and that I will allow Him to grow my life – all to the glory of Him and Him alone.
Will you commit to obeying these commands and allowing Him to give you wisdom and knowledge?
J Mike Wills 