Proverbs 3: 21 - 24

Today we will look at the next four verses in Proverbs 3. Again, they stress that God never wants us to forget sound wisdom and discretion, and that if we continually remember them, than we will find abundant life. Here they are:

Proverbs 3: 21 - 24

21 My son, let them not depart from your eyes—

Keep sound wisdom and discretion;

22 So they will be life to your soul

And grace to your neck.

23 Then you will walk safely in your way,

And your foot will not stumble.

24 When you lie down, you will not be afraid;

Yes, you will lie down and your sleep will be sweet.

Verse 22 says that wisdom and discretion will bring “life to your soul, and grace to your neck.” Back in Chapter 2, we learned that discretion is - "the trait of judging wisely and objectively; AND the ability or power to decide responsibly.” This trait brings us life and grace- (in Christian theology: the free and unmerited favour of God shown towards humankind ). The symbolism is that grace will be like a beautiful necklace for all to see as they look at you.

Wisdom and discretion help us to walk safely, for it will help us to walk in God’s paths and we won’t stumble. Verse 24 goes on to say that when we lay down, we don’t need to be afraid, and that we can have sweet dreams.

Trusting in God to watch over us… knowing that He has everything in His hands, that He loves us, and that He promises to make everything work out for our good when we put Him first in our lives, takes away everything that makes us fearful and stressed out. Without fear and stress in our lives, we will be able to sleep in that peace that passes mankind’s understanding… the peaceful sleep of a trusting child.