Thoughts of Grace

Proverbs 3:1-14

The Rewards of Wisdom

My son, do not forget my [a]teaching,
But let your heart keep my commandments;

For length of days and years of life [worth living]
And tranquility and prosperity [the wholeness of life’s blessings]
they will add to you.

Do not let mercy and kindness and truth leave you
[instead let these qualities define you];
Bind them [securely] around your neck,
Write them on the tablet of your heart.

So find favor and high esteem
In the sight of God and man.

Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart
And do not rely on your own insight or understanding.

[b]In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him,
And He will make your paths straight and smooth
[removing obstacles that block your way].

Do not be wise in your own eyes;
Fear the Lord [with reverent awe and obedience]
and turn [entirely] away from evil.

It will be health to your body
[your marrow, your nerves, your sinews, your muscles—all your inner parts]
And refreshment (physical well-being) to your bones.

Honor the Lord with your wealth
And with the first fruits of all your crops (income);

Then your barns will be abundantly filled
And your vats will overflow with new wine.

My son, do not reject or take lightly the discipline of the Lord
[learn from your mistakes and the testing
that comes from His correction through discipline];
Nor despise His rebuke,

For those whom the Lord loves He corrects,
Even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights.

Happy [blessed, considered fortunate, to be admired]
is the man who finds [skillful and godly] wisdom,
And the man who gains understanding and insight
[learning from God’s word and life’s experiences],

For wisdom’s profit is better than the profit of silver,
And her gain is better than fine gold.

from the Amplified Bible