Proverbs 3:6
Proverbs 3:6 in Multiple Translations
in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he will direct thy paths.
In all your ways give ear to him, and he will make straight your footsteps.
Remember him in everything you do, and he'll show you the right way.
In all thy wayes acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy wayes.
In all thy ways know thou Him, And He doth make straight thy paths.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he will direct thy paths.
In all thy ways think on him, and he will direct thy steps.
Always allow him to lead you. If you do that, he will ◄show you the right path/direct your life►.
Always think about God in everything that you do. If you do that, he will show you the right way to live.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 3:6
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 3:6 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
בְּ/כָל
דְּרָכֶ֥י/ךָ
דָעֵ֑/הוּ
וְ֝/ה֗וּא
יְיַשֵּׁ֥ר
אֹֽרְחֹתֶֽי/ךָ
בְּ/כָל
kôl
H3605
all
Prep | N-ms
דְּרָכֶ֥י/ךָ
derek
H1870
way
N-cp | Suff
דָעֵ֑/הוּ
yâdaʻ
H3045
to know
V-Qal-Impv-2ms | Suff
וְ֝/ה֗וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Conj | Pron
יְיַשֵּׁ֥ר
yâshar
H3474
to smooth
V-Piel-Imperf-3ms
אֹֽרְחֹתֶֽי/ךָ
ʼôrach
H734
way
N-cp | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 3:6
בְּ/כָל
kôl
H3605
"all"
Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)
Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.
דְּרָכֶ֥י/ךָ
derek
H1870
"way"
N-cp | Suff
Derek refers to a road or path, and can also mean a way of life or manner of action. It is often used to describe a journey or direction, and can be used figuratively to describe a person's character or moral path.
Definition: : road/route 1) way, road, distance, journey, manner 1a) road, way, path 1b) journey 1c) direction 1d) manner, habit, way 1e) of course of life (fig.) 1f) of moral character (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 626 OT verses. KJV: along, away, because of, [phrase] by, conversation, custom, (east-) ward, journey, manner, passenger, through, toward, (high-) (path-) way(-side), whither(-soever). See also: Genesis 3:24; Deuteronomy 28:29; 1 Kings 15:34.
דָעֵ֑/הוּ
yâdaʻ
H3045
"to know"
V-Qal-Impv-2ms | Suff
The Hebrew word for to know means to ascertain by seeing, and is used in many senses, including to learn, perceive, and recognize, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: 1) to know 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to know 1a1a) to know, learn to know 1a1b) to perceive 1a1c) to perceive and see, find out and discern 1a1d) to discriminate, distinguish 1a1e) to know by experience 1a1f) to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess 1a1g) to consider 1a2) to know, be acquainted with 1a3) to know (a person carnally) 1a4) to know how, be skilful in 1a5) to have knowledge, be wise 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be made known, be or become known, be revealed 1b2) to make oneself known 1b3) to be perceived 1b4) to be instructed 1c) (Piel) to cause to know 1d) (Poal) to cause to know 1e) (Pual) 1e1) to be known 1e2) known, one known, acquaintance (participle) 1f) (Hiphil) to make known, declare 1g) (Hophal) to be made known 1h) (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself Aramaic equivalent: ye.da (יְדַע "to know" H3046)
Usage: Occurs in 874 OT verses. KJV: acknowledge, acquaintance(-ted with), advise, answer, appoint, assuredly, be aware, (un-) awares, can(-not), certainly, comprehend, consider, [idiom] could they, cunning, declare, be diligent, (can, cause to) discern, discover, endued with, familiar friend, famous, feel, can have, be (ig-) norant, instruct, kinsfolk, kinsman, (cause to let, make) know, (come to give, have, take) knowledge, have (knowledge), (be, make, make to be, make self) known, [phrase] be learned, [phrase] lie by man, mark, perceive, privy to, [idiom] prognosticator, regard, have respect, skilful, shew, can (man of) skill, be sure, of a surety, teach, (can) tell, understand, have (understanding), [idiom] will be, wist, wit, wot. See also: Genesis 3:5; Leviticus 5:4; Judges 21:12.
וְ֝/ה֗וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Conj | Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
יְיַשֵּׁ֥ר
yâshar
H3474
"to smooth"
V-Piel-Imperf-3ms
To be straight or smooth is the meaning of this Hebrew word, often used to describe something as right or pleasant. It is used in Proverbs 11:5 to describe a righteous person, and in Psalm 23:3 to describe a path that is straight and right.
Definition: 1) to be right, be straight, be level, be upright, be just, be lawful, be smooth 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go straight 1a2) to be pleasing, be agreeable, be right (fig.) 1a3) to be straightforward, be upright 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to make right, make smooth, make straight 1b2) to lead, direct, lead straight along 1b3) to esteem right, approve 1c) (Pual) to be made level, be laid smoothly out 1d) (Hiphil) to make straight, look straight
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: direct, fit, seem good (meet), [phrase] please (will), be (esteem, go) right (on), bring (look, make, take the) straight (way), be upright(-ly). See also: Numbers 23:27; Psalms 5:9; Psalms 119:128.
אֹֽרְחֹתֶֽי/ךָ
ʼôrach
H734
"way"
N-cp | Suff
A way or path, describing a road or journey, whether physical or metaphorical. This term is used to talk about travel, direction, and life's journey, often in wisdom literature and prophetic writings. It is found in books like Proverbs and Isaiah.
Definition: 1) way, path 1a) path, road 1b) the path, way, passing of life (fig.) 1c) way of living (fig.) 1d) traveller, wayfarer (meton) Aramaic equivalent: o.rach (אֹ֫רַח "way" H0735)
Usage: Occurs in 58 OT verses. KJV: manner, path, race, rank, traveller, troop, (by-, high-) way. See also: Genesis 18:11; Proverbs 1:19; Psalms 8:9.
Study Notes — Proverbs 3:6
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 3:6 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 3:6
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 3:6
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 3:6
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 3:6
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 3:6
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 3:6
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 3:6
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 3:6
- Sermons on Proverbs 3:6
Context — Trust in the LORD with All Your Heart
4Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man.
5Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;
6in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.
7Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil. 8This will bring healing to your body and refreshment to your bones.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 16:3 | Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be achieved. |
| 2 | Psalms 32:8 | I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you. |
| 3 | Philippians 4:6 | Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. |
| 4 | Proverbs 16:9 | A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. |
| 5 | Jeremiah 10:23 | I know, O LORD, that a man’s way is not his own; no one who walks directs his own steps. |
| 6 | Isaiah 30:21 | And whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear this command behind you: “This is the way. Walk in it.” |
| 7 | James 1:5 | Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. |
| 8 | Isaiah 48:17 | Thus says the LORD your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the LORD your God, who teaches you for your benefit, who directs you in the way you should go. |
| 9 | Psalms 25:8–9 | Good and upright is the LORD; therefore He shows sinners the way. He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way. |
| 10 | Colossians 3:23 | Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, |
Proverbs 3:6 Summary
[This verse means that when we trust in God and acknowledge Him in all we do, He will guide us and help us make good choices. It's like having a wise and loving friend who shows us the way, as promised in Psalm 32:8. By acknowledging God in all our ways, we can experience peace and confidence, even in uncertain times, and trust that He is working everything out for our good, as seen in Romans 8:28.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to 'acknowledge Him' in all our ways?
To acknowledge God in all our ways means to recognize and submit to His sovereignty and guidance in every aspect of our lives, trusting in His goodness and wisdom, as seen in Psalm 37:3-7 and Jeremiah 29:11
Does this promise of straight paths mean we will never face difficulties?
No, it doesn't mean we will never face challenges, but rather that God will guide us through them, as promised in Isaiah 43:2 and Romans 8:28, and help us navigate life's journey with wisdom and peace
How can we practically apply this verse in our daily lives?
We can apply this verse by starting each day with prayer, seeking God's guidance in decision-making, and being mindful of His presence in all our actions, as encouraged in Psalm 119:105 and Proverbs 16:3
Is this promise only for believers, or can anyone experience straight paths?
This promise is specifically for those who trust in the Lord and acknowledge Him in all their ways, as stated in Proverbs 3:5-6, but God's desire is for all people to come to know Him and experience His guidance, as seen in 2 Peter 3:9 and 1 Timothy 2:4
Reflection Questions
- In what areas of my life do I need to acknowledge God's presence and guidance more intentionally?
- How can I balance trusting in God's sovereignty with taking responsibility for my own decisions and actions?
- What are some ways I have experienced God making my paths straight in the past, and how can I trust Him to do so in the present and future?
- In what ways can I prioritize seeking God's wisdom and guidance in my daily life, especially in times of uncertainty or doubt?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 3:6
In all thy ways acknowledge him,.... Or "know him" (l); the Lord: set him before thee; have him always in view; consider him as ever present with thee, observing every step thou takest; and take not
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 3:6
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 3:6
Ways; designs and undertakings for the things of this life or of the next. Acknowledge him, Heb. know him, to wit, practically; or, own him; his wisdom, in following his counsels; his power and goodness, in expecting success from him; his sovereignty, in managing all thy affairs so as to please and glorify him. Direct thy paths; assist and bless all thine endeavours, and keep thee from the paths of sin and destruction.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 3:6
Proverbs 3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.Ver. 6. In all thy ways acknowledge him.] Ask counsel at his mouth, aim at his glory, be evermore in the sense of his presence, and light of his countenance. It is reported of a worthy divine of Scotland, that he did even eat and drink and sleep eternal life. This is to walk with God; this is to live by faith; this is to see him that is invisible (Moses’ s optic); this is to go the upper way, even that "way of life that is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath." And he shall direct thy paths.] As he carefully chose out the Israelites’ way in the wilderness; not the shortest, but yet the safest for them. So will God do for all that make him their guide. The Athenians had a conceit that their goddess Minerva turned all their evil counsels into good unto them. The Romans thought that their Vibilia (another heathenish deity) set them again in their right way, when at any time they were out. All this, and more than this, is undoubtedly done by the true God for all that commit their ways unto him, and depend upon him for direction and success. "Lo, this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death." Zaccheus Convert. preface.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 3:6
Verse 6. In all thy ways acknowledge him.] Begin, continue, and end every work, purpose, and device, with God. Earnestly pray for his direction at the commencement; look for his continual support in the progress; and so begin and continue that all may terminate in his glory: and then it will certainly be to thy good; for we never honour God, without serving ourselves. This passage is well rendered in my old MS. Bible: Have trost in the Lord of all thin herte and ne lene thou to thi prudence: in all thi weys think hym, and he shal right rulen thi goynges; ne be thou wiis anentis thiself. Self-sufficiency and self-dependence have been the ruin of mankind ever since the fall of Adam. The grand sin of the human race is their continual endeavour to live independently of God, i.e., to be without God in the world. True religion consists in considering God the fountain of all good, and expecting all good from him.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 3:6
6. direct] Or, make straight or plain, R.V. marg. Comp. Proverbs 11:5, ἵναὀρθοτομῇ, LXX.; diriget, Vulg.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 3:6
Not in acts of solemn worship or great crises only, but “in all thy ways;” and then God will make the “path” straight and even.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 3:6
6. Acknowledge — Or, recognise. This is intimately connected with the preceding verse, and supplies a strong motive to obey the counsel there given.
Sermons on Proverbs 3:6
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Ever-Present Help in the Time of Trouble by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a conversation with God. He highlights the fact that God is always near and ready to listen and deliver us from trou |
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Walking in the Spirit by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the simplicity of understanding the word of God. He shares that many people miss the great truths of the Bible because they overcomplicate i |
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Attributes of God (Series 2): The Omnipresence of God by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the omnipresence of God, stating that God is everywhere, whether on the sea with sailors or in the kitchen with housewives. This fact unlock |
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Bearing Fruit - Part 8 by Keith Daniel | This sermon emphasizes the importance of abiding in God as the only path to victory, being Christ-like, and avoiding shame. It addresses the neglect of God, highlighting how it gri |
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God Is Good by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Joseph from the Bible. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers and ended up in Egypt, where he was falsely accused and throw |
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Attitudes on Pride by Jim Logan | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of receiving criticism as a leader. They emphasize the importance of not having a critical spirit and being open to feedback. The sp |
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Deferred Obedience 2 - Part 4 by Joshua Daniel | This sermon emphasizes the urgency of obeying God and saving souls around us without delay, highlighting the consequences of deferred obedience and the need for repentance. It call |