Draft a long sermon on proverbs 3, include the biblical texts outside the source material in the beginning of the sermon, then continue with commentary verse by verse in and out of the source material. Include also real and biblical examples in and out of the source materials provided

 Draft a long sermon on proverbs 3, include the biblical texts outside the source material in the beginning of the sermon, then continue with commentary verse by verse in and out of the source material. Include also real and biblical examples in and out of the source materials provided

Beloved friends, brothers, and sisters in Christ, let us turn our hearts and minds this hour to the wisdom found within the Holy Scriptures. Specifically, we come to the book of Proverbs, a treasure chest of divine guidance for our daily lives. As we heard in the introduction to this book, the Proverbs of Solomon are like golden nuggets for our day-to-day living, teaching us how to live lives pleasing to God and a blessing to those around us. This collection of sayings offers guidance on moral living, relationships, and the fear of God.

Let us read together from Proverbs, chapter 3 (King James Version):

(Note: The following biblical text is taken from a source outside the provided documents, specifically the King James Version of the Bible, as mentioned in source.)

Proverbs Chapter 3 1 My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: 2 For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. 3 Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thy heart: 4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. 5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. 8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. 9 Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: 10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine. 11 My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: 12 For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. 13 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. 14 For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. 15 She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. 16 Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. 17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. 18 She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her. 19 The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. 20 By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew. 21 My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion: 22 So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck. 23 Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble. 24 When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet. 25 Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh. 26 For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken. 27 Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. 28 Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee. 29 Devise not evil against thy neighbour, seeing he dwelleth securely by thee. 30 Strive not with a man without cause, if he have done thee no harm. 31 Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways. 32 For the froward is abomination to the LORD: but his secret is with the righteous. 33 The curse of the LORD is in the house of the wicked: but he blesseth the habitation of the just. 34 Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly. 35 The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools.

This chapter, Proverbs 3, is presented in the sources as part of the introduction to the book of Proverbs, focusing on the blessings that come from answering the call of wisdom. It is suggested that Solomon, after asking God for a hearing heart (as described in chapter 2), found wisdom and the blessings of peace, abundance, and wealth that are detailed in chapter 3.

Proverbs 3 reveals that the path of wisdom leads to spiritual, mental, physical, and material blessings. It shows how wisdom is processed in our lives, affecting our heart, mind, and body.

Let's explore this chapter verse by verse:

Proverbs 3:1-2: "My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee." These verses give a general summary of the blessings of wisdom. By diligently obeying God's Word, we are promised a better quality of life, including length of days, long life, and peace. The sources suggest that sowing by diligently obeying God’s Word leads to a harvest of manifold blessings. We see an example of this in the life of Abraham, who was blessed by the Lord "in all things" (Genesis 24:1). (Note: The reference to Genesis 24:1 is from the source material.) Abraham's life illustrates a person blessed spiritually, mentally, physically, and financially.

(Note: The following commentary on Proverbs 3:1-2 is from outside the provided sources.) These opening verses are a direct exhortation from a father figure to his son, urging him to remember and keep his teachings. It emphasizes not just intellectual knowledge ("forget not my law") but heartfelt obedience ("let thine heart keep my commandments"). This foundational principle sets the stage for all the blessings that follow.

Proverbs 3:3-4: "Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thy heart: So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man." Here, the focus is on relationships, described as being in the spiritual realm. Walking in mercy and truth brings favor and honor in relationships with both God and man. Our relationships with God and with others are intertwined. These verses illustrate the principle of sowing spiritually, leading to right relationships. The sources explain that God observes how we treat others; if we walk in love towards them, God will favor us with His blessings. (Note: The references to Proverbs 19:17, 21:21, Matthew 6:14, and 7:1-2 are from the source material, cited as support for the idea that God favors those who walk in love.)

(Note: The following commentary on Proverbs 3:3-4 is from outside the provided sources.) To "bind them about thy neck" and "write them upon the table of thy heart" signifies internalizing these virtues, making them a visible part of one's character and a deep-seated principle in one's inner being. This isn't merely about outward show but a transformation that leads to genuine favor.

Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." These are perhaps the most quoted verses in Proverbs, dealing with decision-making and the mental realm. They instruct us to trust God completely, not relying on our limited understanding. Acknowledging Him in everything ensures He will guide our paths. These verses illustrate sowing in the soulish realm (mind, will, emotions). The sources emphasize that these verses tell us to renew our minds with the Word of God to make wise decisions and find God's will, which leads to prosperity.

(Note: The following commentary and examples on Proverbs 3:5-6 are from outside the provided sources.) Trusting with all your heart means undivided reliance. Leaning on your own understanding, in contrast, is relying on human reason or intellect apart from divine guidance. Acknowledging Him in all ways means seeking His will and involvement in every decision, big or small. A biblical example of trusting completely is Abraham leaving Ur not knowing where he was going (Genesis 12:1-4). Another is Moses raising his staff at the Red Sea (Exodus 14). Conversely, leaning on human understanding without consulting God led to failures like King Saul's unauthorized sacrifice (1 Samuel 13) or Peter's self-confidence leading to his denial of Jesus (Matthew 26).

Proverbs 3:7-8: "Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones." This section addresses physical health and the body. Avoiding being "wise in one's own eyes" and instead fearing the Lord and departing from evil leads to health and long life. This illustrates sowing physically by living wisely. The sources connect departing from evil to avoiding dangerous paths that cut off life. It's related to Proverbs 22:3, where a prudent person foresees evil and hides himself, while the simple go on and are punished. Fearing the Lord is presented as the opposite of being carnal-minded and making decisions based on one's own understanding.

(Note: The following commentary and examples on Proverbs 3:7-8 are from outside the provided sources.) Not being wise in one's own eyes is a call to humility. The fear of the Lord is reverent awe and respect, leading to obedience and turning away from sin. This lifestyle of humility and godliness promotes well-being. Examples of humility leading to exaltation include Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 41) or Jesus Himself (Philippians 2). Pride, being wise in one's own eyes, often leads to downfall, as seen in King Uzziah, whose pride led to him being struck with leprosy (2 Chronicles 26).

Proverbs 3:9-10: "Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine." These verses discuss financial prosperity. Honoring God with our wealth, especially the firstfruits, is a principle that results in material blessings. This illustrates sowing materially by giving generously. The sources note that wealth is considered the offspring of wisdom. This is presented as a lower priority compared to spiritual or mental well-being, but still part of God's will for those whose lives are in order.

(Note: The following commentary and examples on Proverbs 3:9-10 are from outside the provided sources.) Honoring the Lord with substance and firstfruits speaks of prioritizing God in our finances, giving Him the best and the first of what we receive. The promise is material abundance, overflowing blessings. Biblical examples include the widow who gave her last two mites (Mark 12), whom Jesus commended for giving proportionally more than the rich. In the early church, believers sold possessions and distributed to those in need (Acts 4), which also reflects a principle of sharing resources for God's purposes, though the context of Proverbs 3:9-10 is personal giving to God. The story of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5) serves as a negative example, showing the severe consequences of dishonesty in giving to God (outside source).

Proverbs 3:11-12: "My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth." This section addresses chastisement and discipline from God. It teaches us how to endure God's correction, which is a sign of His love. This is part of the process that leads to success and prosperity, keeping our walk balanced. The sources note that God's commandments and reproofs of instruction are the way of life (Proverbs 6:23). This theme is echoed in the New Testament book of Hebrews. (Note: The reference to Hebrews 12:5-6 is from the source material, cited as a New Testament quotation of Proverbs 3:11-12.)

(Note: The following commentary and examples on Proverbs 3:11-12 are from outside the provided sources.) God's discipline is not punishment for sin (that was dealt with at the cross) but training and correction for growth in righteousness (Hebrews 12:10-11). We are not to resent it ("despise not") or grow weary under it ("neither be weary"). Biblical examples of enduring difficult correction include Job, who maintained his integrity despite immense suffering (Book of Job), and Joseph, whose trials in the pit and prison ultimately led to his high position in Egypt (Book of Genesis).

Proverbs 3:13-18: "Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her." These verses powerfully emphasize the immense value and priority of wisdom. Its worth is far greater than any earthly treasure – silver, gold, or rubies. Wisdom brings happiness, long life, riches, honor, pleasantness, and peace. It is likened to a tree of life, a source of vitality and enduring benefit.

(Note: The following commentary on Proverbs 3:13-18 is from outside the provided sources.) This passage urges us to actively seek and acquire wisdom, presenting it as the most profitable pursuit imaginable. The tangible blessings listed here (long life, riches, honor) are often what people pursue directly, but wisdom brings these plus intangible benefits like peace and pleasantness.

Proverbs 3:19-20: "The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; and by understanding hath he established the heavens. By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew." These verses highlight God's divine wisdom demonstrated in the creation and ordering of the universe. It is by His wisdom and understanding that the heavens and earth were established. This reminds us of God's incredible power, intelligence, and design.

(Note: The following commentary on Proverbs 3:19-20 is from outside the provided sources.) This is a powerful reminder that the same wisdom we are called to pursue is the very wisdom God used to bring the cosmos into being. His wisdom is not merely abstract knowledge but the active principle by which reality functions.

Proverbs 3:21-26: "My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion: So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck. Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble. When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet. Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh. For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken." This passage connects keeping wisdom and discretion with safety, confidence, and protection. It promises life to the soul, grace, secure walking without stumbling, fearless rest, sweet sleep, and protection from sudden fear and the downfall of the wicked. Our destiny, including success in relationships, direction, health, and finances, is determined by the wisdom we operate in. Trusting in the Lord provides a safeguard.

(Note: The following commentary on Proverbs 3:21-26 is from outside the provided sources.) The emphasis shifts slightly from acquiring wisdom to retaining it, keeping it central in our lives. This leads to a profound sense of security and well-being, not based on external circumstances but on a life aligned with God's principles and trusting in His protection. The confidence comes from the Lord Himself.

Proverbs 3:27-35: "Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee. Devise not evil against thy neighbour, seeing he dwelleth securely by thee. Strive not with a man without cause, if he have done thee no harm. Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways. For the froward is abomination to the LORD: but his secret is with the righteous. The curse of the LORD is in the house of the wicked: but he blesseth the habitation of the just. Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly. The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools." This final section of the chapter outlines principles for walking in wisdom towards our neighbors. It covers doing good when able (3:27-28), not devising evil (3:29), avoiding unnecessary conflict (3:30), and not envying oppressors (3:31). These are presented as illustrations of "sowing" in different areas of life, as mentioned earlier in relation to Proverbs 3:1-12.

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Doing good/not withholding: Proverbs 3:27-28 serves as an illustration of Proverbs 3:9, showing how to give to those in need as a way to honor the Lord.

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Not devising evil: Proverbs 3:29-30 illustrates Proverbs 3:7, about departing from evil and strife. People who are wise in their own eyes tend towards strife.

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Avoiding envy: Proverbs 3:31-32 illustrates Proverbs 3:5, teaching us not to follow the path of the oppressor but to find the Lord's counsel.

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Humility: Proverbs 3:33-34 illustrates Proverbs 3:3, teaching us to walk with a humble heart and avoid pride that leads to scorning others. Humility enables mercy and walking in truth. God resists the proud and gives grace to the humble.

Finally, Proverbs 3:35 summarizes the two contrasting destinies: glory and praise for the wise versus shame for fools. The outcome depends on how we "sow" in our spirit, mind, body, and finances.

(Note: The following commentary and examples on Proverbs 3:27-35 are from outside the provided sources.) Doing good to those who need it when we have the ability is a practical expression of love and wisdom. The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37 - outside source) illustrates this principle vividly. Devising evil against a trusting neighbor is the opposite of wisdom and godliness. Avoiding strife and envy protects us from destructive emotions and actions. Envy, as seen in Cain's murder of Abel (Genesis 4) or Joseph's brothers selling him into slavery (Genesis 37), is a dangerous path. The contrast between the froward/wicked and the righteous/just highlights God's favor. He opposes the proud (scorners) but blesses the humble (lowly). The ultimate destiny of the wise is glory, reflecting the outcome of a life lived in partnership with divine wisdom, while the foolish path leads to shame.

In conclusion, Proverbs chapter 3 lays out a clear path to a blessed and fruitful life. It encourages us to keep God's commandments in our hearts. To walk in mercy and truth, binding them to ourselves. To trust fully in the Lord, seeking His guidance in all things. To live humbly, fearing God and turning from evil. To honor God with our resources. To receive God's discipline as a sign of His love. Most importantly, it highlights that pursuing wisdom is the most valuable endeavor, bringing with it all these blessings and more.

The journey through Proverbs, like the Christian life itself, is a path of learning to make wise choices, identifying the wise man and the fool. This book reveals God's standard of righteousness, showing our need for Christ, who alone perfectly fulfilled this standard. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of this wisdom journey, guiding our steps and helping us to depart from evil. Ultimately, walking in wisdom leads us to become more like Christ, our ultimate destination.

Let us take the message of Proverbs 3 to heart today. Choose the path of wisdom, trust in the Lord with all your heart, live humbly and righteously, and watch as God directs your paths and pours out His manifold blessings upon your life. May we be among the wise who inherit glory. Amen.