A free course
Religion is looked upon too much in the light of a restraint, and the Christian is often regarded by the world as hampered and shackled by irksome bonds. But the very opposite is suggested by the words of our text. We see the servant of Divine Wisdom running with freedom on his course, and at the same time carefully guarded from misadventure.
I. THE TRUTH OF GOD GIVES LIBERTY. Christ promised that the truth should make men free (John 8:32).
1. The liberty of knowledge. Ignorance is a bondage, because the ignorant man does not know how to shape his course. He is like a traveller lost in the African bush. Physical knowledge gives a certain liberty of action. Knowledge of nature helps the man of science to act where the layman would be helpless. The engineer's knowledge of his machine enables him to work it. When we know the way of peace and safety we can freely and fearlessly run in it.
2. The liberty of obedience. The wisdom of the Proverbs is practical; it is intimately connected with the fear of God. It implies more than knowledge in its followers; it requires also submission and obedience. Now, when we are in rebellion against the Law and will of God, we are continually arrested by his opposing action. But when we delight to do his will we are perfectly free. There is no liberty so great as that which comes from harmony between our wills and the will of God. We desire the very things that God commands; it must follow that we are free to seek them. Then of a certainty God will give us our heart's desire.
II. THE TRUTH OF GOD SECURES SAFETY. The follower of Divine Wisdom will not stumble.
1. He will not run in the way of danger. The narrow path is the safe path. There are gins and snares in the broad road. Though the way of life may be rugged, it is not like the flowery path of sin, in the beauty of which a deadly serpent hides.
2. God will remove the greatest impediments out of his path. He is in the King's highway. Even this road may lead over steep places and through difficult passes. But still, as it is maintained by its Lord, it cannot be left to fall into the state of an impassable road in a neglected country. God is with his people while they are treading the path of righteousness, and he will prepare their way for them.
3. There will be light to see the difficulties of the way. It is possible to stumble even on the high road. Christian men have fallen. We need to be prepared to face the difficulties which will surely meet us even while we are pursuing the Christian course. Now, God's truth is a lamp to guide us over such difficulties (Psalms 119:105). With the light of heavenly wisdom we safely pass them.
4. There will be help at hand. Christ is with his people on their pilgrimage. Like Peter sinking in the waves, they may cry, "Lord, save me: I perish!" and they will be delivered. "Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe" (Psalms 119:117).