Proverbs 7:1

My son, keep my words and treasure my commandments within you.

Study Bible

My son
This phrase indicates a paternal relationship, often used in wisdom literature to convey a sense of authority and care. It reflects the tradition of passing down wisdom from one generation to the next, emphasizing the importance of familial instruction. In a broader biblical context, it can be seen as God addressing His children, highlighting the intimate relationship between God and believers.

keep my words
The call to "keep" suggests active obedience and careful attention. In the Hebrew tradition, keeping God's words was central to the covenant relationship between God and Israel. This phrase underscores the importance of not just hearing but also adhering to divine instruction, similar to the exhortations found in Deuteronomy 6:6-9, where the Israelites are commanded to keep God's words in their hearts and teach them diligently.

and treasure my commandments within you
To "treasure" implies valuing and safeguarding something precious. This phrase suggests an internalization of God's commandments, making them an integral part of one's life. The idea of treasuring God's commandments is echoed in Psalm 119:11, where the psalmist declares, "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." This internalization is crucial for spiritual growth and moral integrity, reflecting the transformative power of God's Word.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. He addresses his teachings to his "son," which can be understood as a direct address to his own children or metaphorically to the reader as a child of wisdom.

2. The Son
Represents the reader or the disciple who is being instructed. The term "son" is used to convey a relationship of guidance and mentorship.

3. Commandments
Refers to the teachings and instructions that are to be followed. In the context of Proverbs, these are the wise sayings and divine laws that Solomon imparts.

4. Words
The teachings and wisdom that Solomon imparts, which are to be kept and treasured.

5. Heart
While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the heart is implied as the place where the commandments are to be treasured, indicating the inner life and moral center of a person.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Wisdom
Emphasize the value of wisdom and understanding as foundational to a godly life. Just as Solomon instructs his son, we are called to seek and cherish wisdom.

Internalizing God's Word
Encourage believers to not only read but internalize Scripture, allowing it to transform their hearts and minds. This involves meditation and memorization.

Obedience as a Response to Love
Highlight that keeping God's commandments is a response to His love and a demonstration of our love for Him. Obedience is not merely duty but devotion.

Guarding the Heart
Stress the importance of guarding one's heart by treasuring God's commandments, as the heart is the wellspring of life and influences actions and decisions.

Passing on Wisdom
Encourage the practice of passing on wisdom to the next generation, just as Solomon imparts wisdom to his "son." This involves teaching and modeling godly principles.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we practically "keep" and "treasure" God's commandments in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does internalizing Scripture help us in our spiritual walk and decision-making?

3. How does the concept of obedience as a response to love change our perspective on following God's commandments?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to guard our hearts and ensure that God's word is central in our lives?

5. How can we effectively pass on the wisdom of God's commandments to the next generation in our families and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 6:6-9
This passage emphasizes the importance of keeping God's commandments in one's heart and teaching them diligently to one's children, similar to the call in Proverbs 7:1 to treasure commandments.

Psalm 119:11
This verse speaks of hiding God's word in one's heart to avoid sin, paralleling the idea of treasuring commandments within oneself.

John 14:15
Jesus speaks about the connection between love and obedience to His commandments, which aligns with the call to keep and treasure commandments in Proverbs.