“My son, let them not depart from your eyes—keep sound wisdom and discretion” (v. 21). God’s Word invites us not just to glance at wisdom but to gaze upon it—to keep it always before our eyes. Wisdom and discretion are not reserved for sacred spaces; they’re for the walk to work, the conflicts at home, the quiet thoughts before sleep. When wisdom governs your eyes, ears, speech, and steps, life is not made easier, but it is made clearer. You walk in the light, not the fog, and that clarity is a gift from God—a lamp for your feet in the darkness of this world (Psalm 119:105).
Why is this important? “[So that] they will be life to your soul and grace to your neck” (v. 22). What the world promises through wealth, beauty, or power, God offers through wisdom: life and grace. But this is not a shallow life or a cosmetic grace; it is a soul-deep vitality that strengthens from within, adorning you not with passing fashion but with the quiet dignity of holiness. “Then you will walk safely in your way, and your foot will not stumble” (v. 23). The fruit of godly wisdom is not a trouble-free path, but a sure one. The wise still suffer, but they don’t stumble into irrecoverable despair. The road may be narrow, but the footing is firm.
“When you lie down, you will not be afraid; yes, you will lie down and your sleep will be sweet” (v. 24). What a precious promise in a restless world! Many lie down with minds racing, fears pressing, regrets shouting—this is me pretty much every single night. But the one who walks with wisdom lies down in peace, not because the world is quiet but because their soul is. Sleep, like wisdom, is a gift from God. I know from personal experience that prayer defeats insomnia. When your trust is in Him, even the silence of night becomes a sanctuary. No shadow need haunt you; no uncertainty need keep you awake. “He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep” (Psalm 121:3-4).
“Do not be afraid of sudden terror, nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes; for the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught” (vv. 25-26). Wisdom doesn’t remove danger; it removes dread. Trouble still comes for the wise, but it doesn’t rule over you. Sudden terrors may shake the world, but they cannot shake the one whose confidence is in the Lord. He is not merely a helper; He is your confidence, your sure footing, your guard against every hidden snare. Therefore, walk wisely, sleep peacefully, and trust wholly; for the Lord, who made the stars, also watches your steps—and your sleep.
The Lutheran Column 