The word most often translated “vision” in the next passage could also be translated “revelation” as in “Word from God”, which I’d like to use it to paraphrase: “Where there is no Word from God, the people are unrestrained, but happy is he who keeps God’s Word.” (Prov 29:18) Vision is certainly an appropriate translation, but we must connect this understanding of sight to the revealed truth of God. From a Christian perspective, can we really have the right view of our goals and dreams without considering God’s Word regarding our futures?

If we don’t have a “Word from God” that we submit to, this passage says people are unrestrained; let loose to divert upon our own paths instead of the path that the Lord has for us. It doesn’t take a lot of searching to see those who take their own paths and rail against those who submit to God’s Word. In their very railing, you can see they aren’t happy. In fact, not only are they miserable, but they want everyone else to be just as miserable. Want to be happy? Then keep God’s Word. “Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained, but happy is he who keeps the law.” (Prov 29:18)

We’ve seen that true joy begins with godly wisdom. Trusting in God and in His will for our lives brings peace. “Whoever gives thought to the Word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord.” (Prov 16:20) In order to find true joy in our lives, we must submit to God’s Word. He wants to illuminate our pathway and guide us, but it takes our submission to His Word. “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Ps 119:105)