Proverbs 4 Commentary

These are the proverbs of Solomon, one of the most renowned kings in the history of Israel. The word translated “proverb” is the Hebrew word “mashal.” The root of the word contains the idea of “compare”—it is translated throughout Scripture as “parable” just as often as “proverb.”

This gives us some insight into the nature of these sayings. Proverbs are not prescriptions. It is not about a formula for how to manipulate circumstances and bend them to our will. That might be wishful thinking, but doesn’t work in reality. The proverbs are, in a sense, “comparing” our human perceptions to the reality of God’s world; trying to connect the two by providing principles that shape our perspective and inform our choices such that we live constructively—that is to say, wisely.

Like parables, the proverbs are meant to guide us “to wisdom”, that is, into a way of living. A way of thinking and perceiving. It is about molding and shaping our perceptions, values, and character into something that is consistently in tune with God, not just as a rule-follower but as someone who understands and practices the essence of the divine. One who sees the world through God’s eyes, and acts accordingly.

Ecclesiastes might be thought of as a philosophical foundation for wisdom. It shows the way to properly view the many aspects of life we cannot control, the “hebel” or vaporous nature of all that surrounds us. The main thing Ecclesiastes shows us is the importance of choosing to trust God, and make good choices based on that trust.

Proverbs will reiterate the philosophical foundations of Ecclesiastes, then zoom in and expand upon the practical application of trusting God and choosing a true perspective within certain areas of life. Proverbs leads us to choose a true perspective in all areas of life, and creates a foundation from which we can choose actions that are constructive, beneficial, and fulfilling.

There are only three things we control in life: who we trust, our perspective, and what we do—our actions. Ecclesiastes makes this reality abundantly clear. Trying to control what we cannot leads to complete futility. Trusting God, however, provides a foundation for constructive living. Proverbs teaches us how best to steward the choices we have—how to trust God, how to choose His perspective, and the key actions to take that lead us to the path of wisdom.

In the fourth chapter of The Book of Proverbs, Solomon continues to impress upon his young audience the importance of pursuing a life of wisdom. He continues to esteem the value of wisdom as the path of obedience to God, as well as our own best self—interest. Wickedness, the opposing path, leads to perversion, confusion, and disillusionment.

In chapter 4, Solomon expounds on the depth and impact of these diverging paths.

One of the things he adds to his arsenal of instruction in Chapter 4 is a personal testimony. Solomon briefly describes how the ways of wisdom were passed to him from his father. Chapter 3 established that wisdom has been present from the very first moment of creation. Here in Chapter 4, Solomon shows the vitally important task of passing the way of wisdom to each subsequent generation.

In light of all of this, Solomon invites the youth to acquire wisdom. To do all he can to get wisdom and make it the foundational bedrock of his daily living. Seek it. Treasure it. Lean into it. Focus on it.

Wisdom is the true path. It is the only way to acknowledge reality and live in the abundance for which we have been created. When we make choices that align with this truth, we set ourselves in partnership with reality. And the benefits of doing so are vast and diverse.

On the other hand, wickedness leads to evil. If we lean into the ways of the wicked, we find ourselves on a dangerous path. Solomon asserts that both wisdom and wickedness are paths of actions. Choices. Neither wisdom nor wickedness are mere abstractions; they cannot be solely contemplated or perceived. They require action.

Wickedness leads to evil actions. Wisdom leads to righteous actions. Our perceptions inform our attitudes and our behavior. And there are consequences to each path—destructive ones for wickedness and life—bringing ones for wisdom.

The Bible Project - Proverbs Summary