Scripture Reading: Proverbs 3:1–18
Introduction
A. We have considered Solomon’s inspired counsel on the topics of relationships and finances.
B. The proverbs also have much to say on matters of the heart and of the godly conduct that a child of God should exhibit.
Discussion
I. Solomon warns us often about the dangerous powers of the tongue.
A. He warns us not to speak rashly (12:18; 13:3; 17:28; 18:13).
B. He urges us to refrain from gossip (16:27–28; 26:22).
C. Flattery is another vice to avoid (29:5; 26:23–28; 28:23).
II. If we wish for the right things to come out, we must be particular about what we allow inside.
A. This is exactly what Jesus said a thousand years after Solomon (Mark 7:20–23; Matthew 12:33–36).
B. We cannot let anger take up residence in our hearts (Proverbs 14:17, 29; 15:1, 18; 19:19; 29:11; Ecclesiastes 7:9).
C. We must also guard ourselves from pride (Proverbs 8:13; 11:2; 13:10; 16:18) and conceit (25:27; 27:2; 26:12).
D. We must also keep ourselves from jealousy (Proverbs 14:30; 23:17–18; 27:4).
E. To keep a pure tongue and heart, one must also avoid alcohol at all cost (Proverbs 23:20–21, 29–35; 31:3–7).
Conclusion
A. Solomon bids us not to put our trust in riches (11:28) or in man (29:25) or in human wisdom (14:12), but in the LORD (3:5–12; 16:20).
B. If we will learn to put God’s word into our hearts and trust His counsel, our lives will be happier, and God will be glorified.