Introduction
Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 15:24, here’s different Bible translations:
King James Version
The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.
American Standard Version
To the wise the way of life [goeth] upward, That he may depart from Sheol beneath.
World English Bible version
The path of life leads upward for the wise, to keep him from going downward to Sheol.
Proverbs 15:24 Meaning & Commentary
The path of life leads upward for the prudent, that he may turn away from Sheol beneath. – Proverbs 15:24 (ESV)
Under the new covenant, we are saved by Jesus Christ – through faith. However, this does not mean we have no part to play in our Christian walk. When we look at Proverbs 15:24 as believers in Jesus Christ, we can see that there are still lessons to be learned from this verse. This verse says that the path of life ‘leads upward’ for the prudent. This verse is similar to what Jesus said:
Matthew 7:13-14 – Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ is a gift to be received by Grace: Romans 3:23-24 – for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, Â and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus..
However, The Bible exhorts us to work out our salvation with fear and trembling – this is an individual exhortation: Philippians 2:12 -Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling…
We are called to grow in Grace and sanctification, becoming more and more like Jesus: Titus 2:11-12 -For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age…When we walk surrendered to God and embrace His Grace as the ability not to sin – we are on the path to righteousness and sanctification in Jesus Christ!
Application
How can we apply Proverbs 15:24 to our lives?
In the book of Psalms, we see a powerful prayer: Psalm 90:12 – So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom. When we lack wisdom, understanding, and prudence, as Proverbs 15:24 refers to, we are more prone to wasting our lives away. However, serving God and doing His will bears fruit for eternity.
The Bible exhorts us to keep our minds set on the right ‘things,’ which is Jesus Christ himself: Colossians 3:1-3 – If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
Practically speaking, how do we do this? The primary way is by filling our minds with God’s word. It is through the renewing of our minds and changing how we think that our lives are transformed: Romans 12:2 – Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Through a renewed mind, we can discern the will of God and walk in it. However, The Bible challenges us to not only fill our minds with the word of God but to apply the word of God in our lives: James 1:22 – But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. If we can sum up godly success in one way, it would be to know and do God’s word:
Joshua 1:8 – This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.
Prayer
Mighty God, thank You for Your word, which calls me to a higher standard of living and to walk in holiness. I ask that as I read and study Your word, You would increase my passion for it and help me apply it in my life. Please forgive me for every sin, iniquity, and transgression. Please give me wisdom and a passion to do Your will. I ask this all in Jesus’ name. Amen!
