Context

Proverbs doesn't really have a story line—it's more like a collection of short little sayings and observations. It's like an ancient Twitter, but without the 140-character limit.

In this section, the author (probably King Solomon) is talking all about his favorite topic: wisdom. It's actually one of his favorite topics. Basically, the author tells us that only way to really be wise is to realize that you don't have a clue about anything.

Hey, that sounds just like something Socrates might have said, too. Great minds really do think alike.

So, what does someone have to do around here to get wisdom? Well, this quote says that a truly wise person puts all their trust in God. Basically, a real brainiac understands that God is large and in charge and knows all.

The basic message here is that people shouldn't try to figure out how to live good lives—they should look to God for that. The Big Guy is the only one who can get you going down that straight and narrow path.

Where you've heard it

This verse is meant to inspire, and you've probably heard it from both Jewish and Christian folks looking to provide the world with a little bit of direction. Hey, sometimes the right path is tough to find.

Additional Notable References:

• This verse inspired the gospel song "He Will Direct Your Path" by the aptly named Truthettes.
• Okay, not just one song. Take a listen to "Trust in the Lord" by The Rizers, or a more Jesus-empowered version of The Wiggles.
• Islam also uses the idea of the straight path. John L. Esposito's book Islam: The Straight Path is considered an excellent introduction to Muslim life and beliefs.

Pretentious Factor

If you were to drop this quote at a dinner party, would you get an in-unison "awww" or would everyone roll their eyes and never invite you back? Here it is, on a scale of 1-10.

People pass out variations of this advice all the time, so you shouldn't look too uppity when you're dishing it out.