Introduction
Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 10:29, here’s different Bible translations:
King James Version
The way of the LORD is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.
American Standard Version
The way of Jehovah is a stronghold to the upright; But it is a destruction to the workers of iniquity.
World English Bible version
The way of Yahweh is a stronghold to the upright, but it is a destruction to the workers of iniquity.
Proverbs 10:29 Meaning & Commentary
The way of the Lord means different things to both the blameless and evildoers. To the blameless person, it is a stronghold. How could the way of the lord be a stronghold to the blameless? Firstly, we know that we are not blameless in ourselves, but it is through Jesus Christ that we are made blameless: Colossians 1:22 he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him.
A stronghold is a fortified defensive structure. What is meant by the way of The Lord? It just speaks about God’s workings and His Kingdom and Kingdom principles: Acts 19:23 About that time there arose no little disturbance concerning the Way. So, God’s ways and dealings are a stronghold to the blameless in that as we walk according to God’s ways, His Word, and his principles, we walk safely and securely in Him. Proverbs 2:7 he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity, and Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. The Bible talks about God being a shield to people. When we walk with God and put Him first in all that we do and follow His Word and His principles, he not only looks out for us, but His ways become a stronghold to the blameless, of which we are in Christ.
This means that we are protected, guided, and helped by him, and His ways are a stronghold to us. Likewise, His ways bring destruction to evildoers because we know that God brings the plans of the wicked to nothing, and their evil ambitions fall to the ground: Psalm 37:12-13 12 The wicked plots against the righteous and gnashes his teeth at him, 13 but the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he sees that his day is coming.
Application
How can we practically apply Proverbs 10:29 to our lives?
Firstly, we need to receive the righteousness of God and right-standing with Him by Faith in Jesus Christ: Romans 3:21-22 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. Then, we need to walk according to His ways and His Kingdom, not to try and earn righteousness, but this is the way to successful living in Christ.
The Bible teaches us that when we seek His Kingdom, righteousness, and way of doing things, we will have everything we need and walk in success: Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. We also must always choose to do the right thing, not the easiest or the most convenient thing. God will honor that and be a shield to us, as both Proverbs 2:7 and Proverbs 30:5 tells us. We cannot expect God’s blessing, protection, and provision if we choose to be the lord of our lives.
When we let God be lord over our lives, we submit ourselves to His ways, His purposes, and His plans that we can expect Him and His ways to be a stronghold for us. In the same manner, evildoers will always be found out. Though there may seem to be a road that appears easy, comfortable, and allows us to live our own lives, it will surely catch up with us: Psalm 9:16 The Lord has made himself known; he has executed judgment; the wicked are snared in the work of their own hands. So, let’s put aside every form of wickedness, surrender our lives to God, and do our best to be obedient to His Word and His ways. As we do this, His ways will be a stronghold for us and protect us in everything we do!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I thank you for this teaching today. I know that following you and Your Word is not always easy, but I know it is for my protection and guidance. I thank you that your ways are a stronghold to those who submit to them, so I choose to submit to your lordship in every area of my life. As I do this, I thank you for divine protection and help in every area of my life. Help me to seek your kingdom first in all that I do and that I may bring you glory and honor with my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
