Proverbs 2 helps us gain an understanding of what it means to “set our minds” on “things that are above” (Colossians 3:1-2), and “on the things of the Spirit” (Romans 8:5-6).
Receive my words (Prov. 2:1) — The word “receive” means to take in hand and carry along. It is the word used of a man taking a wife; also, of God’s choosing of Israel (Deut. 4:34). It has the nuance of holding near to oneself with lasting vital connection.
Treasure up my commandments (v.1) — “Treasure up” means to store and protect something of great worth or value. This word describes how God treasures His people For example, “He will hide me in His shelter in the day of trouble; He will conceal me under the cover of His tent; He will lift me high upon a rock” (Ps. 27:5).
Making your ear attentive to wisdom — (v.2) The word “attentive” speaks of paying close attention to details. King Saul was reprimanded for not doing so in I Samuel 15:22.
Incline your heart to understanding — (v.2) To “incline” one’s heart is to stretch it out; it is a word for growth. It also means a turning toward with the sense of loyalty.
Notice the objects of these verbs: words, commands, wisdom and understanding. Where do these come from? “The LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” (v.6).
What stands out in these verses is the passion and work that are to be invested in this pursuit. “Call out” and “raise your voice” (vv.3-4) betray a deep, passionate longing for God’s wisdom and knowledge. “Seek” and “search as for hidden treasures” describe the effort (like digging!) God’s people ought to put into discerning and understanding the riches of God’s truth.
What is the benefit of this pursuit? “Then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God” (v.5). It is telling that these verses contain no moral imperatives – only the pursuit of God’s wisdom and knowledge through His Word.
When the Christian’s heart and mind are trained and molded by a focused, fervent quest of God’s self-disclosure, then he will “understand righteousness and justice and equity, every good path” (v.9). This is how we are to “apply God’s Word” for it to form and shape our lives.
What happens in entertainment, technology, finances, and fashion has a far greater impact on how our culture thinks about reality than what happens in Washington D.C. or Raleigh. Politics reflect the values of our culture. The habits of heart and mind are shaped by these other more strategic arenas. For example, 18th century Scottish politician Andrew Fletcher said, “Let me write the songs of a nation: I don’t care who writes its laws.” The “songs of a nation” are things upon which the people meditate. Thereby are formed their habits of thoughts.
Paul speaks to this plainly, “Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God” (Colossians 3:16).
I challenge you to make regular honest assessments of what is shaping the habits of your heart and mind.