How does Proverbs 4:27 connect with Jesus' teachings on the narrow path?

Proverbs 4:27—Walking Straight

“Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your feet away from evil.”

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Jesus and the Narrow Path

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14)

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Key Parallels

- Singular focus

• Proverbs: keep feet on one line, no veering.

• Jesus: one small gate, one narrow way.

- Clear moral boundary

• Proverbs: “turn… away from evil.”

• Jesus: wide road ends in “destruction”; narrow road ends in “life.”

- Personal responsibility

• Proverbs: the verb is imperative—“do not swerve.”

• Jesus: “enter” is a command; disciples choose the gate.

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Supporting Passages That Reinforce the Connection

- Deuteronomy 5:32; Joshua 1:7 — “Do not turn aside to the right or to the left.”

- Isaiah 30:21 — voice behind you saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

- Hebrews 12:13 — “Make straight paths for your feet.”

- Luke 13:24 — “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door.”

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Practical Takeaways

- Guard the mind: entertainment, conversations, and thoughts that pull right or left jeopardize the straight walk.

- Daily course-checks: Scripture reading and Holy Spirit conviction reveal drift quickly.

- Consistent obedience in small choices keeps the path narrow and straight.

- Fellowship: walking with believers who love the Word helps reinforce the same lane.

- Hope: the narrow road may be lonely, but it is guaranteed to lead to life because the Lord who spoke Proverbs 4:27 and Matthew 7:13-14 cannot lie.