#1301. Proverbs 3:16–18 – Wisdom brings life (7/7/25)

Welcome to this Come to Jesus Daily Devotional where we are continuing in our Wisdom for Life series from Proverbs. 

Today, from Proverbs 3:16-18, we learn that the best life is promised to those who will follow God’s wisdom. 

To watch this devotional, please select the link below. 

This text speaks of four things that we all want: ‘long life’, ‘riches’, ‘honour’ and ‘peace’. All four aspects: health, provision, reputation and peace are important for a good life. Those who love wisdom are promised all four. 

i. Long life

Firstly, the wise are promised a long life. Is this a promise of health and longevity for all who have the right sort of wisdom? Proverbs is a book of wisdom that everyone can apply and this sort of promise is not so much the promise of God’s supernatural intervention to extend life so much as a general principle that those who seek to live wisely will very likely have a long life. God is interested in our health and if we are wise our bodies will thrive. 

ii. Riches

Likewise, the wise will gain riches. If we follow God’s principles of work and stewardship, we will gain wealth. 

iii. Honour

A good reputation is important. If nothing else, our reputation as Christians is important because we represent Jesus. Wisdom in our dealings and relationships will lead to a good reputation for the glory of God. In our work as teachers, plumbers, consultants, etc., it’s important that we do a great job and gain a good reputation and this, in turn, feeds into the previous point about riches. 

iv. Peace

Finally, the wise are promised peace. Peace within and peace without is the reward for wisdom. Our thinking and feelings are very much influenced by our wise choices to meditate on and live in ways that promote inner peace. Added to this, relationships, even with very difficult people, will be more peaceful if we walk in God’s wisdom. 

If our health, our finances, our reputation, our feelings, and relationships are chaotic, we need to seek God and the advice of others for godly wisdom. It’s vital that we take responsibility rather than blaming others for our lives. 

Let’s pray together 

“Father, teach me your wisdom. Lead me to a long life, riches, honour, and peace so that I can enjoy life as is your will. Give me a willing heart that responds to your wisdom and rejects foolishness. Amen.” 

Community Group Notes

1. Notices

It might be good to begin with notices. Please share from this week’s Church News. 

2. Icebreaker

How has God been speaking to you from His Word this week, and how has this helped you? 

3. Worship together

Let’s begin our time together by lifting our eyes and hearts to worship our great God. Perhaps you have readings and songs that you would like to use together. Let’s be open to the gifts that the Spirit wants to give in order to encourage one another.

4. Study and pray together

Balanced Time Allocation - Please ensure a balanced focus on discussion, SIV (Serve, Invest, and Invite), and prayer so that each section is meaningful and fruitful.

Week #5. Proverbs 3:16-35. The God of creation knows about true life and wisdom. 

1. What themes stand out in this week’s section? Identify key ideas and repeated patterns. What is the focus of this section?

2. What promises does God offer, and what warnings does He give? Look for specific encouragements, blessings, or cautions in the text.

3. How does this speak into our lives today? What are the practical ways we could live this out — individually, in our families, in our community?

4. How is God calling you to respond? Consider what this means for your heart, your choices, and your direction.

5. SIV (Serve, Invest, and Invite)

• How might the wisdom in this week's section of Proverbs help us to be a light for Jesus?

• Have you had any recent opportunities to Serve, Invest in, or Invite someone toward Jesus? Let’s encourage one another by sharing testimonies of God at work through us.

  
  

6. Let’s pray together: 

• Let’s pray for one another based on our study, and bring before God any other needs or requests for prayer.

• Pray for one another's SIV opportunities and boldness in following the Spirit's promptings.

• Pray specifically for the 'people of peace' in our lives—asking God to open hearts and provide opportunities to speak life and truth.