Wisdom’s benefits

“My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you” (Prov 3:1-2 ESV).

I love the book of Proverbs! It is so rich in wisdom and practical advice for everyday life. As I often say: - “If we want heaven’s result, we must ‘do life’ heaven’s way.” These two verses at the commencement of chapter 3 give us one of the key principles for healthy living and a long, fruitful life.

Solomon, the principal author of Proverbs and perhaps the wisest man to ever live, encourages us with these instructions for Kingdom living. We are to build our lives on God’s Word, keep His commands (statutes) and in so doing, we add length of days and peace to our lives. The word here for peace in the original language is ‘shalom’ and contains within its’ meaning completeness, safety, soundness, welfare, health, prosperity, peace, tranquillity, contentment, friendship, and every good thing. What a remarkable word and how ‘inferior’ is our English word ‘peace’ when it comes to describing the truly wonderful blessings the Lord has in store for those whochooseto live by His statutes. 

They add length to our life and assure us of peace even in the midst of life’s challenges. May I encourage you to meditate on all of the attributes of the Hebrew word shalom and consider how you can more fully live by God’s ways in order to bring healing, wholeness and longevity to your life?