How good it is when we read such encouraging words and hear words of wisdom; this is our hope. The righteous will always shine, and even though there is darkness on his path, he will not be lost because his light will illuminate him.
The way of the wicked is always full of darkness; however, the way of the righteous increases its brightness like the dawn, they gain wisdom and achieve every purpose they have in their hearts.
That is why we see in this verse what Solomon expressed. In addition, we are presented with the example of the life of the wicked and that of the righteous, which have a different end. Proverbs 4:18 tells us the following:
But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
Proverbs 4:18
The path of the wicked is dark, gloomy and dangerous, as their thoughts are being obscured by the enemy, who through them seeks to carry out his plans against the righteous. But we must remember that the path of the righteous is in the hands of God.
It is comforting to know that we have our living hope, and that if today we are light it is because our Lord has illuminated our paths. We will be like the light of dawn that increases day by day until the day is perfect. This is the path of the righteous that Solomon speaks of in verse 18, so keep that brightness and hope that you carry and do not let it go.
When Solomon speaks about the light that shines more and more, he is not referring to a sudden or instant perfection, but to a progressive process. The righteous person grows step by step, learning through obedience, correction, and humility. Each day brings greater clarity, greater understanding, and a deeper relationship with the Lord. Even when trials appear, they serve as instruments that polish the light rather than extinguish it.
This path of increasing light reminds us that the righteous do not walk by their own strength. They depend on divine guidance, trusting that God orders their steps. When doubts arise, the light of the Lord brings discernment. When fear appears, that same light provides peace. In this way, the righteous advance confidently, knowing that their direction is secure even if the surroundings seem uncertain.
In contrast, the way of the wicked lacks this divine illumination. Their darkness is not only external but internal, affecting their decisions, desires, and intentions. Without the light of wisdom, they stumble repeatedly, unable to recognize the dangers before them. This darkness leads them to confusion and ultimately to destruction, as Solomon consistently warns throughout the book of Proverbs.
The righteous, however, are invited to remain faithful to the light they have received. This means living according to truth, justice, and integrity. It means rejecting paths that may seem attractive but lead away from God’s will. The light that grows brighter each day is sustained by obedience and reverence for the Lord, which keeps the heart aligned with His purposes.
It is important to understand that this brightness is not meant to be hidden. The righteous shine so that others may see the goodness of God reflected in their lives. Through acts of kindness, patience, and faithfulness, their light becomes a testimony that encourages others to seek the same path. In this way, God’s wisdom spreads, and His truth is made known.
Solomon’s teaching reminds us that the journey of faith is ongoing. There will be moments of shadow, but the promise remains firm: the light will continue to grow. The dawn does not retreat; it advances until the day is complete. This assurance gives strength to persevere, even when circumstances seem difficult.
Therefore, let us hold firmly to this promise. Let us walk with confidence, knowing that the Lord Himself is our light and salvation. As we continue on the path of righteousness, we can trust that our way will become clearer, our hope stronger, and our hearts more firmly established in His truth. This is the blessed path of the righteous, illuminated by God and guided toward a perfect day.