Don’t
be wise in your own eyes. Fear Yahweh, and depart from evil.
Proverbs 3:7
Proverbs 3 [5.] Trust in Yahweh with all your heart,
and don’t lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight.
Don’t be wise in your own eyes.
Fear Yahweh, and depart from evil.
It will be health to your body,
and nourishment to your bones.
Honor Yahweh with your substance,
with the first fruits of all your increase:
Proverbs 3 [10.] so your barns will be filled with plenty,
and your vats will overflow with new wine.
Meaning:
In this verse, we encounter a contrast between two attitudes: being "wise in your own eyes" and "fearing Yahweh." The first attitude, being "wise in your own eyes," speaks to the danger of pride and self-reliance. It warns against the temptation to rely solely on our own understanding and wisdom, without acknowledging our dependence on God.
The book of Proverbs frequently warns against the folly of pride and self-sufficiency, emphasizing instead the importance of humility and reliance on God for guidance and direction (Proverbs 16:18; Proverbs 29:23). Pride leads to destruction, but humility leads to wisdom and favor with God.
The second part of the verse instructs us to "fear Yahweh" and "depart from evil." Here, the fear of the Lord is presented as the antidote to pride and self-reliance. The fear of the Lord is not a terror-filled dread but a reverent awe and respect for God's holiness, sovereignty, and authority. It involves recognizing God's supremacy and submitting to His will in all areas of our lives.
This fear of the Lord leads to obedience and righteous living, as it motivates us to depart from evil and walk in the ways of righteousness and integrity. It is a recognition that God's ways are higher than our ways, and His commands are for our good and the good of others (Isaiah 55:8-9).
In the broader context of the book of Proverbs, this verse is part of a collection of teachings on the pursuit of wisdom and the blessings that come from living in accordance with God's principles. Wisdom is portrayed as the key to a flourishing life, characterized by righteousness, prosperity, and well-being.
As we reflect on Proverbs 3:7, we are reminded of the importance of humility and reverence for God in the pursuit of wisdom. We are called to acknowledge our limitations and our need for God's guidance and direction in our lives. And we are encouraged to walk in obedience to God's commands, trusting that His ways lead to true fulfillment and flourishing.
Ultimately, Proverbs 3:7 challenges us to examine our hearts and attitudes, and to cultivate a posture of humility and reverence for God. May we heed the wisdom of this verse, and may it lead us to a life of obedience, righteousness, and true wisdom in the fear of the Lord.
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible