Trust, Fear, and Honor God

Sermon Introduction

Solomon, the author of most of the book of Proverbs, started Chapter 3, with “my son” whom he may be referring to an actual son or his children, or anyone who he considers as his students. It was common during his time for teachers to regard their students with a father-son relationship. 

One pattern we can observe throughout Proverbs is an instruction in a positive and negative statement followed by a benefit. In verses 1-2, not forgetting the instructions and obeying them would prolong one’s life and bring prosperity. In verses 3-4, Solomon further instructs that not taking away love and faithfulness but keeping them as part of one’s body would bring favor and good name in the sight of God and men.

Dr. Steve Bonilla Elder

Proverbs 3:5-10 NASB

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.
6 In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight.
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;
Fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
8 It will be healing to your body
And refreshment to your bones.
9 Honor the Lord from your wealth,
And from the first of all your produce;
10 Then your barns will be filled with plenty,
And your vats will overflow with new wine.

Notes

Solomon, the author of most of the book of Proverbs, started Chapter 3, with “my son” whom he may be referring to an actual son or his children, or anyone who he considers as his students. It was common during his time for teachers to regard their students with a father-son relationship. 

One pattern we can observe throughout Proverbs is an instruction in a positive and negative statement followed by a benefit. In verses 1-2, not forgetting the instructions and obeying them would prolong one’s life and bring prosperity. In verses 3-4, Solomon further instructs that not taking away love and faithfulness but keeping them as part of one’s body would bring favor and good name in the sight of God and men.

Our focus is verses 5-10 where Solomon highlights the benefits when we trust, fear, and honor God.

1. God provides direction when we completely trust and acknowledge Him instead of our own understanding (vv 5-6).

   Application: Since our experience and understanding are limited, let us trust God and entrust to Him our plans and dreams for He  is powerful and perfect in all His ways. Let us acknowledge His Sovereignty in our community, family, and personal lives. Let us read and know His directions written in the Holy Scriptures.

2. God provides healing and nourishment to our bodies when we fear Him and turn from evil instead of being wise in our own eyes (vv 7-8)

   Application: Let us not be arrogant and say that “we know a lot” or “we know everything already,” rather, let us humble ourselves before God and be reminded of God’s wrath and the consequences of sin. Let us ask for God’s forgiveness and repent from our sins. 

3. God provides earthly blessings when we honor Him with our wealth and produce (vv 9-10).

   Application: Let us honor God with our wealth and give Him the best of what we have. Let us prioritize God’s kingdom in our budget.