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Book of Proverbs - Chapter 22 - Verse 4

22:4
By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life.

Meaning

Having humility and reverential fear towards the LORD is a key aspect of living a prosperous and fulfilling life. The verse highlights that through humility, which is the quality of being modest and respectful, and the fear of the LORD, which denotes a deep reverence and awe towards God, one can attain riches, honor, and a fruitful life. This verse emphasizes the importance of staying humble and acknowledging God's greatness and authority in order to experience blessings in various aspects of life. By recognizing our dependence on God and submitting to His will, we can attract blessings and favor from Him. Additionally, having a healthy fear of God helps us to make wise choices and live righteously, leading to a life filled with honor and prosperity. In essence, this verse teaches us that living with humility and a reverence for the LORD brings about abundant blessings and a meaningful existence.

Theological Overview

When exploring the theological interpretation of the verse "By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life," it is essential to understand the significance of humility and fear in the eyes of God. Humility is often seen as the key to receiving God's blessings, as it involves recognizing our own limitations and weaknesses in the presence of an almighty and perfect God. By approaching God with humility, we acknowledge His supreme authority and sovereignty over our lives, thereby opening the door for Him to bestow upon us His blessings and favor.

The fear of the LORD, on the other hand, is not a sense of dread or terror, but a deep reverence and awe for God's holiness and power. This fear motivates us to align our lives with His will and live in obedience to His commandments. It is through this reverential fear that we cultivate a deep relationship with God, seeking His guidance and wisdom in all aspects of our lives.

When we combine humility and the fear of the LORD, we position ourselves to receive the abundant blessings that God promises in this verse: riches, honor, and life. These blessings extend beyond material wealth to encompass spiritual riches, honor in God's eyes, and a fulfilled and meaningful life lived in accordance with His will. By embracing humility and the fear of the LORD, we open ourselves up to the fullness of God's blessings and experience His goodness in every area of our lives.

American Standard Version

The reward of humility [and] the fear of Jehovah [Is] riches, and honor, and life.
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