What does Proverbs 3:17 mean?

Solomon comments that wisdom's ways are pleasant and peaceful. His father David concurred with this observation. David wrote in Psalm 16:11 that in God's presence there is fullness of joy, and at His right hand there are pleasures forevermore. As believers obey the source of wisdom, which is God, they experience joy and peace. The unregenerate world cannot bestow either attribute.

Unbelievers may search for joy, but they are unable to find it. Whatever peace the non-believer finds is shallow and fleeting. Individuals may spend a small fortune on chemicals and self-help without attaining peace, and nations may enter into peace accords that last only a brief amount of time. By contrast, Jesus gives His followers joy (John 15:11), and peace (John 16:33). He said in John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."