“He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who keeps understanding will find good” (Proverbs 19:8).
Much of the material written about self-love is simply narcissistic idolatry. The Bible does not teach making your thoughts, feelings, and actions the pre-eminent authority in your life. The human heart is deceitful above all things (Jer. 17:9); it is not a trustworthy, objective standard by which to live.
Wisdom which is rooted in the fear of Jehovah and permeated by the righteousness which arises from objective truth is the only right and wise way to live. Therefore, he who pursues this wisdom loves his own soul.
As Jesus so simply and powerfully concluded the sermon on the mount (Mat. 7:24-27), the wise man builds his house upon the rock of hearing God’s word and doing it; the foolish man builds on sand. He who keeps understanding will find good. He who doesn’t will have a disaster.
Love your soul: Get wisdom and keep understanding.
