Introduction

Good morning, brothers and sisters! We are gathered here today to explore a deeply profound scripture from the book of Proverbs, a book known for its nuggets of wisdom and life guiding principles.

Proverbs 4:23:

"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it"

This can teach us about the value of wisdom, the importance of safeguarding our hearts, and the benefits of wisdom.

Thomas Watson once said, "All the danger is when the world gets into the heart. The water is useful for the sailing of the ship; all the danger is when the water gets into the ship; so the fear is when the world gets into the heart."

What he meant is that the world is a tempting and dangerous place. We as Christians are lucky because our past sins and mistakes are washed away by the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, and our new life, led by wisdom and righteousness, begins with His resurrection. This wisdom we gain is not just about knowledge but about understanding, discerning, and applying God’s teachings in our lives.

Let's bow our heads for a moment of prayer.

Dear Heavenly Father, as we delve into your word today, we ask for your divine wisdom and guidance. Help us to understand and apply the message of Proverbs 4:23 in our lives. Let our hearts be open to your teachings, and may we guard them from anything that does not align with your will. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Let’s dive in!

The Value of Wisdom

The value of wisdom is not just about acquiring knowledge, but about understanding, discerning, and applying God’s teachings in our lives. Wisdom is the ability to discern what is true, right, and lasting. It is a gift from God that enables us to make decisions that honor Him and align with His will for our lives.

Proverbs 16:16: We are told, “How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!” This verse underscores the fact that wisdom is more valuable than any material wealth. It is the key to a life of fulfillment, peace, and joy. Wisdom is the compass that guides us through the tumultuous seas of life, helping us navigate through the storms of trials and tribulations.

Choosing to do what is right: It is about making decisions that are not just beneficial for the moment, but are profitable for eternity. It's about understanding the consequences of our actions and making choices that reflect our commitment to God. Wisdom is the bridge between knowledge and action, between understanding and application.

Its ability to bring peace and stability in our lives: When we walk in wisdom, we walk in alignment with God's will, and this brings a sense of peace and tranquility that surpasses all understanding. Wisdom keeps us from making decisions that lead to chaos and confusion. It helps us to live lives that are orderly, peaceful, and fruitful.

Protects us: Proverbs 4:6 tells us, “Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.” When we embrace wisdom, we are guarded against the pitfalls of life. Wisdom helps us to see the traps set by the enemy and gives us the discernment to avoid them. It shields us from the consequences of foolish decisions and guides us on the path of righteousness.

A beacon of light in a world filled with darkness: It illuminates our path, showing us the way to go. When we walk in wisdom, we walk in light, and this light shines brightly, dispelling the darkness around us. It attracts others to us and points them to the source of our wisdom, which is God.

Its ability to bring success: Proverbs 3:13-14 tells us, “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.” Wisdom brings success not just in the material sense, but in every aspect of our lives. It brings success in our relationships, in our work, in our ministry, and in our walk with God.

It is a precious gift from God that brings protection, success, peace, and illumination. It is the compass that guides us through life, the shield that protects us, the light that illuminates our path, and the key to a successful and fulfilling life.

Guarding Our Hearts

When we talk about the heart in a biblical sense, we are not referring to the physical organ that pumps blood throughout our bodies ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO