In Proverbs 30:1–33 we have the inspired sayings of Agur. We do not know who this Agur was, but he was clearly a humble man, having a low opinion of himself and an exalted opinion of God (see Proverbs 30:1–4).
In this proverb, Agur reminds us that we are only able to know God because God has revealed himself to us in his Word. We can fully rely on God’s Word, because every word in it is “flawless.” Agur clearly understands God’s Word to be a covenantal book, a book in which God binds himself to his people, promising to be their “shield” (see Genesis 15:1).
Because God’s Word is a covenantal book, its words may never be changed. Hence Agur’s warning: “Do not add to his words.” Respect for God’s Word is even more fitting for us, who have it in its complete form: Old and New Testament. The Bible also ends with this covenantal warning: “I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll” (Revelation 22:18–19).
5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.