The Enduring Relevance of Proverbs 1:3-4 by Loretta Huggins

PROVERBS: GPS for a Better Life 

To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;

To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.

– Proverbs 1:3-4 (KJV) 

The above Bible passage holds a message of immense importance for all of us, regardless of whatever demographics we are, that is, our personal characteristics: ethnicity, race, age, gender, education, income, employment, language, popularity, physique, family, and so forth. The above verse emphasizes the need for wisdom, understanding, righteousness, justice, and equity in our lives.  

• Wisdom: the ability to make sound and insightful decisions and judgments.
• Understanding: comprehending and grasping meaning and knowledge. 
• Righteousness: being morally right by the Blood of Christ. 
• Justice: fair treatment of others 
• Equity: fairness and impartiality to those with different needs or circumstances. 

Those principles are the foundation of a just and harmonious society. Remembering that we are social beings, the instruction of Proverbs 1:3-4 is the cornerstone of our relationship with each other, as well as with God.  

To quote English writer, D. H. Lawrence (1885-1930), \”Ethics and equity and the principles of justice do not change with the calendar.\” That statement highlights the timeless relevance of the above principles and the need for all of us to constantly strive to live by them each day of our lives.  

We must not only continue the daily practice of these principles, but we must also teach our children to live by the instruction in Proverbs 1:3-4 because it is of the utmost importance in our world today. Let us teach our young people – the leaders of tomorrow – to act with fairness and impartiality: To ensure that their actions and decision are guided by the principles of justice based on God\’s Word. This is especially critical in a world where personal interests and biases can easily cloud our judgment.  

These principles are timeless! 

Question for discussion: 

1. How do your beliefs, combined with your idiosyncrasies regarding the principles addressed in the blog, shape your understanding and desire to be the answer to a more just and equitable society? (Remembering that we are social beings.)

Loretta Huggins, born and raised in San Francisco, CA, has served in the ministry with her husband, Larry Huggins since 1989: administrator, hostess, event planner, and teacher. She has traveled to eighteen countries. She is the co-founder and co-pastor of ZChurch.