There are times our English translations do not do justice to the true meaning of Scripture. That is the case in Proverbs 3:3. The word interpreted as “loyalty” has a much broader meaning. It includes kindness, mercy, love, piety, and lovingkindness. The word interpreted as “faithfulness” also has a broader meaning. It includes faithfulness, firmness, truth, stability, continuance, and peace.

When we understand the broader meaning of these words, we can then understand why King Solomon said to write them on our heart, that we are to carry them with us wherever we go and in whatever we do. Solomon is stating that we are to treat people with kindness and mercy out of our love for them and God. We should do this with piety or by submitting to God.

We are to be consistent in doing this, faithfully applying God’s love in our lives. We are to be at peace standing firm in God’s love and sharing it with others. We trust in the truth of God’s Word and his promises. Being faithful to God includes us lovingly serving others.

How does this look in our everyday lives? We approach every situation with God in mind. We spend time listening to others, rather than assuming we know based on very limited information. We put ourselves in the other persons’ shoes, seeking to understand from their point of view. We do this while standing firm in God’s love and accepting his peace into our lives.

Notice this is to be continual, meaning we are to approach every situation with this mindset. The instruction is not to do this when we feel like it. We are to do this in every situation. No, it is not easy. Yet, when we observe how Jesus approached every situation, we see this proverb in action. As followers of Jesus, we are to do the same.

Solomon includes a reward for following this approach. He says that we will be held in high regard by God and by others. The high regard is a result of how we treat others and our level headedness in every situation. When we treat others the way we want to be treated and approach every situation as Jesus did, others notice. They recognize our ability to bring calm out of chaos. They see us treat others well, even when some may believe they don’t deserve it.

Our faithfulness is to God. We follow his guidance and direction. We seek to speak and act as Jesus did. Why? We have his Word written on our hearts. It is part of us and guides us in all we do. This is why it is so important that we read and understand God’s Word. As we apply God’s Word in our lives, we change the world around us.

Proverbs 3:3-4: Do not let loyalty and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and of people.