Proverbs Part V-Practices in Biblical Programming (Proverbs 3:1-12)

A basic tool of computer programming that helps the program know what to do based on user input is the "If/Then" statement.

Let’s say you are writing a computer program where the user will get to guess a number between 1-100. The user types a number in and then clicks the “guess” button. The “guess” button would have several If/Then Statements applied to it. Such as:
“If ‘user input’ > ‘number’ Then print ‘Too High! Try Again!’”, or
“If ‘user input’ < ‘number’ Then print ‘Too Low! Try Again’”, or “If ‘user input’ = ‘number’ then print ‘Great Guess! You’re Right’”

There are quite a few places in the Bible where God gives us "If/Then" type statements as it relates to our life and relationship/response towards Him, His commands, and His Word. These If/Then's are great promises, but promises that require some commitment from us.

Here are 6 If/Then's from Proverbs 3.

1. IF keep the word THEN long life and peace (v1-2)
2. IF faithful and loving "dress" THEN view with favor and success (v3-4)
3. IF trust THEN right directions (v5-6)
4. IF recognize lack of real wisdom THEN healing and refreshment (v7-8)
5. IF honor God first THEN plenty (v9-10)
6. IF accept God's discipline THEN treat as a son (v11-12)

What about you? Which of these “If’s” seems the hardest for you? Is the “then” worth some added effort? Just like last week we learned we cannot expect protection and deliverance if we are on the wrong paths, we need to remember that we cannot expect real peace, real success, real plenty, real direction and real relationship with God if we do not trust in, lean on, and honor Him above all others.