Proverbs 3:13-26 Happy is the man that finds wisdom, and the man that gets understanding.… of wisdom: — Here notice the writer's insight into the fundamental conception of human life. I. LIFE AS A SCHOOL. The word "chastening" might be rendered "instruction." It means the dealing of God with the human soul as a teacher deals with his pupil. This idea relieves God of the charge that He is angry with His children when sorrows fall upon them. We are not to "despise" this instruction, not to "weary" at this correction. II. THE BEST LESSON TO BE LEARNED IN THIS SCHOOL IS WISDOM. Not all in the school succeed in learning this. Wisdom is skill; it is enlightenment of the soul with respect to its relation to God and His world. It includes insight, judgment, and the highest qualities of the soul. With the richness of this inner life there comes true peace. III. THIS WISDOM IS CREATIVE. "The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth." Wisdom is creative in man. He is a generator of moral influence wherever he may be. Some persons are reserve forces of righteousness. Such influence is creative. IV. THIS WISDOM BEGETS FAITH. It produces confidence in the unknown and untried. Knowledge of God, instead of creating doubt, inspires firmer hope and humble reliance. The further one sees into God's character the more serene and settled he is, because the progress in knowing God is progress in knowing goodness. (E. S. Tead.) Parallel Verses KJV: Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.WEB: Happy is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gets understanding. |
    |