What does Proverbs 3:23 mean?

Solomon continues to name the benefits of sound wisdom and discretion. These traits were described in prior verses. To embrace those qualities brings security. Likely, King David told his son Solomon about the many times the Lord protected him from Saul in the wilderness. Now Solomon tells his student that God will enable him to walk securely without stumbling.

As with all statements in Proverbs, this is not meant as a universal guarantee. Danger and hardship come even to those who honor God (Proverbs 3:25). Rather, wisdom literature such as this presents general statements. Those who follow God's will, and His plan, have much less risk and greater chance for success than those who rebel. This statement, however, comes close to being an absolute prediction. When a person stumbles into sin, or strays from the path of God's will, it can only be done by failing to hold to sound wisdom and discernment.

Given all of that, it is comforting to know we do not walk alone through life. Our Good Shepherd, Jesus, walks with us. Not only does He walk with us, but He also walks in front of us. He leads us beside placid waters and in the paths of righteousness (Psalm 23:2–3). In John 10:4 Christ assures us that He goes before us. Therefore, nothing befalls us that He has not encountered and allowed for our good. Hebrews 4:15 depicts Jesus as our great High Priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses and was tempted in every way that we are tempted. The next verse encourages us, therefore, to carry our concerns to Him in prayer, "that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).