“True Wisdom: Walking in Humility, Reverence, and Righteousness”

Proverbs 3:7 (NIV) says:
“Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.”

Proverbs 3:7 (NIV) states, “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.” This verse provides profound guidance for living a life rooted in humility, reverence for God, and moral uprightness. To fully understand its meaning, let us examine it in parts.

“Do not be wise in your own eyes”

This phrase warns against arrogance and self-reliance. It reminds us that human understanding and wisdom are limited and fallible. Being “wise in your own eyes” means trusting solely in your own judgment and believing that you have all the answers. Such an attitude often leads to pride, stubbornness, and an unwillingness to learn from others or acknowledge one’s mistakes.

Humility is essential here. A wise person understands that there is always more to learn and that others, including God, may have perspectives that surpass our own. This part of the verse encourages us to adopt a teachable spirit, remain open to correction, and recognize that our wisdom is insufficient compared to God’s infinite knowledge.

“Fear the Lord”

The phrase “fear the Lord” refers to having a deep respect, reverence, and awe for God. It does not imply living in terror of Him but rather acknowledging His authority, majesty, and wisdom. To “fear the Lord” means to prioritize His will and guidance in our lives, recognizing that His ways are always right and beneficial.

This reverence involves submitting to God’s Word and trusting His plans, even when they may not align with our understanding. It is an attitude that keeps us grounded, reminding us that God is the ultimate source of wisdom, power, and justice. Proverbs 9:10 reinforces this idea, stating, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” When we place God at the center of our lives, we gain the clarity needed to make sound decisions.

“Shun evil”

The final part of the verse, “shun evil,” instructs us to turn away from sin and anything that contradicts God’s will. Shunning evil means actively avoiding behaviors, thoughts, or situations that lead us away from righteousness. It requires discernment to recognize what is harmful or sinful and the courage to reject it, even when it is tempting or culturally acceptable.

This phrase also highlights the importance of making moral choices. It is not enough to fear the Lord; that reverence must translate into actions. By avoiding evil, we demonstrate our commitment to living according to God’s standards and values. Shunning evil involves both resisting external temptations and addressing internal struggles, such as pride, greed, or anger.

Applying Proverbs 3:7 to daily life

In practical terms, this verse encourages us to rely on God in all aspects of life. When faced with decisions, instead of acting impulsively or relying solely on our logic, we should seek God’s guidance through prayer, scripture, and wise counsel. Humility helps us recognize that we need God’s direction, while the fear of the Lord motivates us to follow His instructions.

For example, in the workplace, this verse might remind us not to overestimate our abilities or dismiss feedback from colleagues. In relationships, it could prompt us to prioritize forgiveness and kindness, recognizing God’s call to love others. In moments of temptation, the command to “shun evil” reminds us to choose integrity and righteousness over short-term gratification.

Conclusion

Proverbs 3:7 is a concise yet powerful verse that provides a blueprint for living a fulfilling and God-honoring life. It challenges us to let go of pride, submit to God’s authority, and live in a way that reflects His character. By not being wise in our own eyes, fearing the Lord, and avoiding evil, we align ourselves with God’s perfect will and experience the blessings of His guidance and protection.