Proverbs 3:16-18

Proverbs 3:16-18 Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. ¹⁷Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. ¹⁸She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her (KJV).

Reflection

The respected commentator Adam Clarke comments, “A wicked man shortens his days by excesses; a righteous man prolongs his by temperance.” To many people, temperance is not a good word. They associate temperance with the religious right, with legalistic restrictions, and with complete abstinence. Another meaning of temperance is moderation. Wise people have balance in their lives. That means work and play are balanced. Those who balance their lives practice temperance.

Temperance, or balance in life, extends a person’s life expectancy. Wise people understand that. While they will work hard, they refuse to work themselves to death for superiors, customers, or clients. Too much work can cause stress, which is harmful to health. Wisdom means balance in play too. Wise people do not pour all of their time into getting sex. And they ensure any sexual relations they have a safe. They make sure they only have sex in safe locations, and they ensure they are using the safe sexual methods.