Proverbs 29:18
Proverbs 29:18 says, Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained,
But happy is one who keeps the Law (NASB). A quick exposition: in this context, “vision” means oracle or divine communication, and “unrestrained” is unbound, loosed, let go, with the implication of perishing.
The application is obvious- if one rejects the direction, guidance, and boundaries of God’s revelation, the ultimate result is unchecked, unrestrained human passion and reasoning which will lead only to eternal destruction (1 John 15-17). But if we remain rooted in God’s Word, reading it under the direction of His Holy Spirit, spiritual health is the result. The Word of God is like a guardrail keeping us on the highway of true life.
So, we immerse ourselves in the Word (Psalm 119:133). We find God’s expression of life in the Word (Psalm 119:144; 2 Timothy 3:14-17). We do not plunge into speculation, making up our own addendum to what the Word teaches, or cutting parts out (Psalm 119:160; 1 Corinthians 4:6).
One observer wrote, “Revere the silence of Holy Writ, as much as its declarations: so you will less dogmatize on what is not expressly revealed.” We stick to what God has given us. In His wisdom alone will we find the way to live, the truth to strengthen us.