One of the Bible’s wisdom books, Proverbs, is from a collection of wise sayings that were compiled by King Solomon. In Proverbs 3, a father lovingly but firmly imparts wisdom to his son for his success in life. David and Solomon were father and son. David gave Solomon instructions on remaining in God’s grace through trust in His word by contrasting what Solomon’s life would look like without it.
Verses 1-6
To start, David charges Solomon not to depart from his teaching because it will add longevity and prosperity to him. The first son that David had by Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, died shortly after birth as a result of David’s sin. In Proverbs 3, David instructs Solomon, born afterward, to steer him away from making wrong decisions by advising him to make wise choices.
David’s experiences have made him wiser, so he admonishes Solomon to remain faithful. David instructs Solomon to always walk in truth, which is the word of God, and to be merciful, by showing kindness and equity to all. God’s grace toward us includes mercy. Therefore, showing mercy imitates God. David tells Solomon to trust God and put Him first.
Verses 7-12
David administers wise counsel in Proverbs 3 by warning Solomon in verse 7 to be humble because the Lord rejects arrogance and high-mindedness. He continues by admonishing Solomon to be generous because he who sows bountifully reaps a good harvest. God blesses those who give to support His work on earth.
Solomon is instructed to yield to the Lord’s correction. God’s ways are higher than ours, and we must trust Him to guide our every step. As a Father, God chastises those He loves and corrects those who belong to Him.
Verses 13-18
David continues in Proverbs 3 by exclaiming that the happiness or joy that comes with gaining wisdom is unmatched. Wisdom is more valuable than earth’s riches and gives believers a long, successful life. God’s grace, or unmerited favor, provides a good life for us. To feel the impact of David’s words, read Proverbs 3 as if your Heavenly Father is speaking directly to you.
Verses 19-24
David offers Solomon the good life by extolling God’s superior wisdom in creating the earth. Solomon is advised to cling to God’s grace to be free from fear and worry. As we journey in God’s grace, we will also be led by His wise counsel, which gives us confidence.
Verses 25-30
David continues by lecturing Solomon to be steadfast in trusting God, who is the One who protects and provides. His talk includes charging Solomon not to treat others unfairly and not to withhold anything from them. David advises him to avoid strife and division. Like Solomon, we also must lead with kindness
Verses 31-35
As David ends his speech, he warns Solomon against envy and following the ways of ungodly men. David does not want Solomon to reap God’s wrath. Evil doers face judgment, while those who walk in righteousness are blessed. As we walk in God’s wisdom and grace, we have a great future to look forward to.
Journey of Grace
David’s words to Solomon are words for us to learn from as well. As we continue on our journey of grace, God instructs us to avoid sin and walk in right standing, or righteousness with God. Throughout Psalm 3, David shows Solomon the blessed life that can be achieved by trusting in God.
By the end of David’s address, he reveals the horrible life the wicked are certain to obtain. David warns Solomon to avoid evil in all its forms. He counsels Solomon to remain in God’s grace and receive the inheritance that God gives to those who walk in righteousness. David concludes by contrasting the faithful to the unfaithful: “The wise shall inherit glory, but shame shall be the promotion of fools.”
Whether you’re just beginning to embark on your journey of grace or continuing to abide in it, Proverbs 3 is a powerful presentation of God’s goodness to those who trust in Him.
