Proverbs 22:17–19: Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge; For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you; Let them all be fixed upon your lips, so that your trust may be in the Lord; I have instructed you today, even you.
Insight
The exhortations in verse 17 to pay attention, listen, and apply your heart are calls to pursue and obey what is presented in. Reasons for the exhortation are given in verses 18–19: it is pleasing to memorize the sayings (keep them in your heart) and to be able to quote and talk about them (have … them … on your lips) because they encourage people to trust … in the Lord. 1
Application
Notice the wise steps to take if you desire His wisdom:
- Listen to what God has to say in His Word. (The Spirit of God speaks through the Word of God)
- Apply your heart to embrace the truths of God’s Word with an obedient response.
- Keep what you have learned as a treasure within your heart.
- Communicate to others your trusting faith in the Lord, and in His Word.
Motivation
So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12
The wisdom from heaven is available to all who are on earth, if they are willing to receive the Word of God and obey it. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Father, please help me to lay aside all other passions, and passionately pursue You.
1. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.