Proverbs 1:33
But whoever listens to me will dwell in safety, secure from the fear of evil."
But whoever listens to me
The phrase begins with "But," indicating a contrast to the preceding verses, which warn of the consequences of ignoring wisdom. The Hebrew word for "listens" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just hearing but obeying and heeding. In the biblical context, listening is an active engagement, a readiness to follow divine instruction. This is a call to prioritize God's wisdom over worldly distractions, emphasizing the importance of a heart that is open and receptive to divine guidance.

will dwell securely
"Dwell" in Hebrew is "יָשַׁב" (yashab), meaning to sit, remain, or abide. It conveys a sense of permanence and stability. "Securely" comes from the Hebrew "בֶּטַח" (betach), which means safety, confidence, and trust. Together, these words promise a life anchored in God's protection and peace. This security is not merely physical but spiritual, offering assurance against the chaos of life. It reflects the biblical promise that those who trust in the Lord will find refuge and strength.

and be at ease
The phrase "be at ease" translates from the Hebrew "שַׁאֲנַן" (sha'an), which means to be tranquil, undisturbed, or at rest. This tranquility is a result of trusting in God's wisdom and providence. It suggests a life free from the anxiety and fear that plague those who reject divine counsel. In a world filled with turmoil, this ease is a profound gift, a state of inner peace that surpasses understanding, as promised in Philippians 4:7.

without fear of harm
"Harm" in Hebrew is "רָעָה" (ra'ah), which can mean evil, distress, or adversity. The promise here is not that life will be free from challenges, but that those who listen to wisdom will not be paralyzed by fear. This assurance is rooted in the character of God, who is sovereign and good. The absence of fear is a recurring theme in Scripture, reminding believers that faith in God dispels fear, as seen in 2 Timothy 1:7, where God gives a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Solomon
Traditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. He compiled these sayings to impart wisdom and understanding.

2. Wisdom
Personified in Proverbs as a woman calling out to people, urging them to follow her ways. Wisdom represents God's truth and guidance.

3. Israel
The original audience of Proverbs, the people of Israel were encouraged to live according to God's wisdom to experience His blessings.

4. The Simple
Refers to those who are naive or inexperienced, often mentioned in Proverbs as needing guidance and instruction.

5. The Fool
In Proverbs, the fool is someone who rejects wisdom and instruction, often leading to their downfall.
Teaching Points
The Call to Listen
Listening to wisdom is an active choice. It requires humility and a willingness to be taught by God.

The Promise of Safety
God promises safety and security to those who heed His wisdom. This is not just physical safety but also spiritual and emotional peace.

Freedom from Fear
True wisdom leads to freedom from the fear of evil. Trusting in God's guidance provides a sense of security that transcends circumstances.

The Importance of Discernment
In a world full of voices, discerning God's wisdom is crucial. This requires regular engagement with Scripture and prayer.

Living Wisely in Community
Wisdom is not just for personal benefit but for the well-being of the community. Our choices impact those around us.
Bible Study Questions
1. What does it mean to "listen" to wisdom in the context of Proverbs 1:33, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

2. How does the promise of dwelling in safety relate to the broader biblical theme of God's protection?

3. In what ways can we cultivate a heart that is receptive to God's wisdom, especially in a world full of distractions?

4. How can the assurance of being "secure from the fear of evil" influence our response to challenging situations?

5. Reflect on a time when following God's wisdom led to peace and security in your life. How can this experience encourage others in your community?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Psalm 91
This Psalm speaks of dwelling in the shelter of the Most High and being protected from harm, similar to the promise of safety in Proverbs 1:33.

Matthew 7:24-27
Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders highlights the importance of listening to and acting on His words, paralleling the call to listen to wisdom in Proverbs.

James 1:22-25
James emphasizes being doers of the word, not just hearers, which aligns with the call to listen and act on wisdom in Proverbs.
Warning Cry of WisdomE. Johnson Proverbs 1:20-33
The Divine UltimatumW. Clarkson Proverbs 1:24-33
People
David, Solomon
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Confidently, Dread, Dwell, Dwelleth, Ear, Ease, Evil, Fear, Gives, Harm, Hearkeneth, Hearkening, Listens, Peace, Quiet, Rest, Safely, Safety, Secure, Securely
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Proverbs 1:33

     5057   rest, physical
     6705   peace, experience
     8367   wisdom, importance of

Proverbs 1:28-33

     6622   choice
     8760   fools, characteristics

Proverbs 1:32-33

     5511   safety

Library
A Young Man's Best Counsellor
'The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel; 2. To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding; 3. To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity; 4. To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion, 5. A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels: 6. To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings. 7.
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Wisdom's Call
'Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets: 21. She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying, 22. How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? 23. Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my Spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you. 24. Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Baxter -- Making Light of Christ and Salvation
Richard Baxter, was born in 1615, at Rowton, near Shrewsbury, in England. After surmounting great difficulties in securing an education for the ministry he was ordained in 1638, in the Church of England, his first important charge being that of Kidderminster, where he established his reputation as a powerful evangelical and controversial preacher. Altho opposed to Cromwell's extreme acts, he became a chaplain in the army of the Rebellion. His influence was all on the side of peace, however, and at
Various—The World's Great Sermons, Vol. 2

A Preface to the Reader.
The Sum of the Preface. 1-8. Objections before and since the author's death made against the publishing of this doctrine. 9-10. The first objection: Because the knowledge and practice of it belongs to few: answered. 11-15. A second objection, viz. Because suspicion may be given to Catholics of pretending to new illuminations, prejudicial to the doctrine of faith and rules of life established in the Church: answered largely, and the contrary demonstrated. 16-20. What illuminations are here meant,
Ven. F. Augustine Baker—Holy Wisdom: or, Directions for the Prayer of Contemplation

Creation and Re-Creation.
"Behold, I will pour out My Spirit unto you."--Prov. i. 23. We approach the special work of the Holy Spirit in Re-creation. We have seen that the Holy Spirit had a part in the creation of all things, particularly in creating man, and most particularly in endowing him with gifts and talents; also that His creative work affects the upholding of "things," of "man," and of "talents," through the providence of God; and that in this double series of threefold activity the Spirit's work is intimately connected
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

The Man to be Wrought Upon.
"Behold, I will pour out My Spirit unto you, I will make known My Words unto you."--Prov. i. 23. The discussion so far has been confined to the Holy Spirit's work in the Church as a whole. We now consider His work in individual persons. There is a distinction between the Church as a whole and its individual members. There is a Body of Christ, and there are members which constitute a part of that Body. And the character of the Holy Spirit's work in the one is necessarily different from that of the
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

The Great Unknown
"I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out My hand, and no man regarded."--Prov. i. 24. "There standeth One among you, whom ye know not."--John i. 26. C. P. C. tr., Emma Frances Bevan, 1899 Why dost Thou pass unheeded, Treading with piercèd feet The halls of the kingly palace, The busy street? Oh marvellous in Thy beauty, Crowned with the light of God, Why fall they not down to worship Where Thou has trod? Why are Thy hands extended Beseeching whilst men pass by With their empty
Frances Bevan—Hymns of Ter Steegen and Others (Second Series)

How the Whole and the Sick are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 13.) Differently to be admonished are the whole and the sick. For the whole are to be admonished that they employ the health of the body to the health of the soul: lest, if they turn the grace of granted soundness to the use of iniquity, they be made worse by the gift, and afterwards merit the severer punishments, in that they fear not now to use amiss the more bountiful gifts of God. The whole are to be admonished that they despise not the opportunity of winning health for ever.
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

How those are to be Admonished with whom Everything Succeeds According to their Wish, and those with whom Nothing Does.
(Admonition 27.) Differently to be admonished are those who prosper in what they desire in temporal matters, and those who covet indeed the things that are of this world, but yet are wearied with the labour of adversity. For those who prosper in what they desire in temporal matters are to be admonished, when all things answer to their wishes, lest, through fixing their heart on what is given, they neglect to seek the giver; lest they love their pilgrimage instead of their country; lest they turn
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

The Reader Reminded How Much He Needs the Assistance of the Spirit of God to Form Him to the Temper Described Above, and what Encouragement He
1. Forward resolutions may prove ineffectual.--2. Yet religion is not to be given up in despair, but Divine grace to be sought.--3. A general view of its reality and necessity, from reason.--4. And Scripture.--5. The spirit to be sought as the spirit of Christ.--6. And in that view the great strength of the soul.--7. The encouragement there is to hope for the communication of it.--8. A concluding exhortation to pray for it. And an humble address to God pursuant to that exhortation. I HAVE now laid
Philip Doddridge—The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul

Concerning Perseverance, and the Possibility of Falling from Grace.
Concerning Perseverance, and the Possibility of Falling from Grace. Although this gift and inward grace of God be sufficient to work out salvation, yet in those in whom it is resisted, it both may and doth become their condemnation. Moreover, they in whose hearts it hath wrought in part to purify and sanctify them in order to their further perfection, may, by disobedience, fall from it, turn it to wantonness, Jude iv. make shipwreck of faith, 1 Tim. i. 19. and after having tasted the heavenly gift,
Robert Barclay—Theses Theologicae and An Apology for the True Christian Divinity

How the Obstinate and the Fickle are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 19.) Differently to be admonished are the obstinate and the fickle. The former are to be told that they think more of themselves than they are, and therefore do not acquiesce in the counsels of others: but the latter are to be given to understand that they undervalue and disregard themselves too much, and so are turned aside from their own judgment in successive moments of time. Those are to be told that, unless they esteemed themselves better than the rest of men, they would by no
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

How Christ is the Way in General, "I am the Way. "
We come now to speak more particularly to the words; and, first, Of his being a way. Our design being to point at the way of use-making of Christ in all our necessities, straits, and difficulties which are in our way to heaven; and particularly to point out the way how believers should make use of Christ in all their particular exigencies; and so live by faith in him, walk in him, grow up in him, advance and march forward toward glory in him. It will not be amiss to speak of this fulness of Christ
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life

Lii. Concerning Hypocrisy, Worldly Anxiety, Watchfulness, and his Approaching Passion.
(Galilee.) ^C Luke XII. 1-59. ^c 1 In the meantime [that is, while these things were occurring in the Pharisee's house], when the many thousands of the multitude were gathered together, insomuch that they trod one upon another [in their eagerness to get near enough to Jesus to see and hear] , he began to say unto his disciples first of all [that is, as the first or most appropriate lesson], Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. [This admonition is the key to the understanding
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Second Sunday after Trinity Exhortation to Brotherly Love.
Text: 1 John 3, 13-18. 13 Marvel not, brethren, if the world hateth you. 14 We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not abideth in death. 15 Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. 16 Hereby know we love, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17 But whoso hath the world's goods, and beholdeth his brother in need, and shutteth
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. III

Li. Dining with a Pharisee, Jesus Denounces that Sect.
^C Luke XI. 37-54. ^c 37 Now as he spake, a Pharisee asketh him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat down to meat. [The repast to which Jesus was invited was a morning meal, usually eaten between ten and eleven o'clock. The principal meal of the day was eaten in the evening. Jesus dined with all classes, with publicans and Pharisees, with friends and enemies.] 38 And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first bathed himself before dinner. [The Pharisee marveled at this because
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Twentieth Sunday after Trinity the Careful Walk of the Christian.
Text: Ephesians 5, 15-21. 15 Look therefore carefully how ye walk [See then that ye walk circumspectly], not as unwise, but as wise; 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Wherefore be ye not foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And be not drunken with wine, wherein is riot, but be filled with the Spirit; 19 speaking one to another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; 20 giving thanks always for all things
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. III

Sundry Sharp Reproofs
This doctrine draws up a charge against several sorts: 1 Those that think themselves good Christians, yet have not learned this art of holy mourning. Luther calls mourning a rare herb'. Men have tears to shed for other things, but have none to spare for their sins. There are many murmurers, but few mourners. Most are like the stony ground which lacked moisture' (Luke 8:6). We have many cry out of hard times, but they are not sensible of hard hearts. Hot and dry is the worst temper of the body. Sure
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12

Extent of Atonement.
VI. For whose benefit the atonement was intended. 1. God does all things for himself; that is, he consults his own glory and happiness, as the supreme and most influential reason for all his conduct. This is wise and right in him, because his own glory and happiness are infinitely the greatest good in and to the universe. He made the atonement to satisfy himself. "God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
Charles Grandison Finney—Systematic Theology

The Wrath of God
What does every sin deserve? God's wrath and curse, both in this life, and in that which is to come. Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire.' Matt 25: 41. Man having sinned, is like a favourite turned out of the king's favour, and deserves the wrath and curse of God. He deserves God's curse. Gal 3: 10. As when Christ cursed the fig-tree, it withered; so, when God curses any, he withers in his soul. Matt 21: 19. God's curse blasts wherever it comes. He deserves also God's wrath, which is
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments

"And There is None that Calleth Upon Thy Name, that Stirreth up Himself to Take Hold on Thee,"
Isaiah lxiv. 7.--"And there is none that calleth upon thy name, that stirreth up himself to take hold on thee," &c. They go on in the confession of their sins. Many a man hath soon done with that a general notion of sin is the highest advancement in repentance that many attain to. You may see here sin and judgment mixed in thorough other(315) in their complaint. They do not so fix their eyes upon their desolate estate of captivity, as to forget their provocations. Many a man would spend more affection,
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

"Thou Shall Keep Him in Perfect Peace, Whose Mind is Stayed on Thee, Because He Trusteth in Thee. "
Isaiah xxvi. 3.--"Thou shall keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusteth in thee." All men love to have privileges above others. Every one is upon the design and search after some well-being, since Adam lost that which was true happiness. We all agree upon the general notion of it, but presently men divide in the following of particulars. Here all men are united in seeking after some good; something to satisfy their souls, and satiate their desires. Nay, but they
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

The Hebrew Sages and their Proverbs
[Sidenote: Role of the sages in Israel's life] In the days of Jeremiah and Ezekiel (Jer. xviii. 18; Ezek. vii. 26) three distinct classes of religious teachers were recognized by the people: the prophets, the priests, and the wise men or sages. From their lips and pens have come practically all the writings of the Old Testament. Of these three classes the wise men or sages are far less prominent or well known. They wrote no history of Israel, they preached no public sermons, nor do they appear
Charles Foster Kent—The Origin & Permanent Value of the Old Testament

The Heavenly Footman; Or, a Description of the Man that Gets to Heaven:
TOGETHER WITH THE WAY HE RUNS IN, THE MARKS HE GOES BY; ALSO, SOME DIRECTIONS HOW TO RUN SO AS TO OBTAIN. 'And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that he said, Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain: escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed.'--Genesis 19:17. London: Printed for John Marshall, at the Bible in Gracechurch Street, 1698. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. About forty years ago a gentleman, in whose company I had commenced my
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

Links
Proverbs 1:33 NIV
Proverbs 1:33 NLT
Proverbs 1:33 ESV
Proverbs 1:33 NASB
Proverbs 1:33 KJV

Proverbs 1:33 Commentaries

Bible Hub
Proverbs 1:32
Top of Page
Top of Page