Proverbs 3:18

The happiness that wisdom brings is not just an emotion. This is the same happiness that Jesus describes in Matthew 5:3-12. When God forgives our evil actions, we receive his joy in our spirits.

Sometimes our lives will still be difficult. Sometimes, we shall be very sad. Even then, God will comfort us. He will look after us. Although we are sad, God’s joy will still be in our hearts. And we will have good lives, because God will help us.

David wrote, ‘Even when death is near, you (God) are with me. So, I am not afraid. You guide and comfort me’ (Psalms 23:4). David was not happy when he was in danger. But he knew that God’s joy was in his spirit. So he was not afraid of the dangers that surrounded him.

v19 God created the world by his wisdom.

He created the heavens by his skill.

v20 His knowledge caused the rivers to flow.

And the clouds dropped gentle rain.

Verse 19-20

We all need wisdom. Even God used his wisdom to make the world.

This paragraph is similar to John 1:1-3. ‘In the beginning was the word. The word was with God. The word was God. He was with God in the beginning. God made everything by his word. He made nothing without the word.’

John explains that ‘the word’ means Jesus. Jesus was always with God, because Jesus is God.

v21 My son, hold firmly to wisdom and right decisions.

Do not let them escape from you!

v22 These things will bring you a long and beautiful life.

They are like a precious stone on a chain about your neck.

v23 If you are wise, then your journey will be safe.

And your foot will not trip.

v24 When you lie down, you will not be afraid.

You will sleep in peace.

v25 Do not fear sudden dangers!

An evil man will lose everything.

v26 But God will protect you.

He will save you from dangers.