Proverbs 3:19-24 The LORD by wisdom had founded the earth; by understanding had he established the heavens. By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew. My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion: So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck. Then shall thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble. When thou lies down, thou shall not be afraid: yea, thou shall lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.
‘The LORD by wisdom had founded the earth.’ Here wisdom is taken for the infinite knowledge and skill of God whereby everything in creation has been made and maintained. The composition and structure of all creation have not been changed. It is just the condition of nature that is in a fallen state (Rom. 8:22-23).
‘Them depart from thine eyes.’ “Them” may refer to mercy and truth (3:3), or wisdom and understanding (3:13).
‘Life unto thy soul’ – Eight things that will bring life: Law and commandments (3:1-2). Mercy and truth (3:3-4). Trust in God (3:5). Acknowledgement of God (3:6). and reverence for God (3:7-8). Departure from evil. Wisdom and understanding (3:13-18). Wisdom and discretion (3:21-24).
‘Grace to thy neck’ – Another reference to ornaments around the neck (1:9).
‘Then shall thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble.’ Here is another conclusion (2:5, 9; 3:23). THEN – when all the conditions of Proverbs 3:1-22 shall have been met – one will not stumble. One can then live in confidence, security, and safety, and sleep will be sweet (3:23-24).
Living the Word 