The First Step
In today’s Mid-Week study, we’re going to look at the book of Proverbs, where we’ll find a treasure trove of wisdom that has been passed down through generations. One of the major themes that emerges from this book is the concept of “the fear of the Lord” as the foundation of wisdom. This theme is introduced early in Proverbs 1:7, which states, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” This verse sets the stage for understanding the entire book and offers a lens through which we can view our lives and decisions.
Words of Wisdom from a Father to a Son
The book of Proverbs is often framed as a collection of teachings from a father to his son. This paternal advice is not just about imparting knowledge but about instilling a way of life that is rooted in the reverence of God and is applicable to anyone. The father figure in Proverbs emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and understanding, and he warns against the pitfalls of foolishness and evil.
In Proverbs 4:1-2, we read, “Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching.” This passage highlights the importance of heeding wise counsel and valuing the lessons passed down from those who have walked the path before us.
The Four Poems of Lady Wisdom
Pastor Jim briefly talked about one of the unique features of the book of Proverbs which is the personification of wisdom as a woman, often referred to as “Lady Wisdom.” There are four key poems in Proverbs that feature this personification, each offering profound insights.
- Proverbs 1:20-33 – In this passage, Lady Wisdom calls out in the streets, urging people to listen to her and turn from their foolish ways. She warns of the consequences of ignoring her advice and highlights the benefits of heeding her call.
- Proverbs 3:13-20 – Here, Lady Wisdom is described as more precious than silver and gold. The passage emphasizes the value of her wise advice and the blessings that come from embracing it, including long life, peace, and prosperity.
- Proverbs 8:1-36 – This poem presents Lady Wisdom as being present at the creation of the world, working alongside God. It underscores the idea that wisdom is woven into the very fabric of creation and is essential for living a righteous and fulfilling life.
- Proverbs 9:1-12 – In this passage, she prepares a banquet and invites everyone to partake. She contrasts her invitation with that of Folly, highlighting the stark differences between a life of wisdom and a life of foolishness.
What is “the Fear of the Lord“?
At the heart of the book of Proverbs is the concept of “the fear of the Lord.” This phrase can be misunderstood if taken at face value. It does not mean living in terror of God but rather having a deep reverence and awe for Him. It is about recognizing God’s authority, power, and holiness, and responding with humility and obedience.
The fear of the Lord is the foundation upon which true wisdom is built. It is the starting point for understanding and living a life that is pleasing to God. Proverbs 9:10 reiterates this truth: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
5 Ways to Apply Wisdom in Our Lives
Understanding the fear of the Lord and the value of His teachings is just the beginning. The real challenge lies in applying these principles to our daily lives. Listed below are several steps to help us apply these sayings found in Proverbs:
- Seek God Daily – Make it a habit to spend time in prayer and reading the Bible. Ask God for wisdom and guidance in all areas of your life.
- Heed Wise Counsel – Surround yourself with people who are wise and godly. Listen to their advice and learn from their experiences.
- Avoid Foolishness – Be mindful of the choices you make and the company you keep. Avoid situations and people that lead you away from God’s sound advice.
- Embrace Humility – Recognize that you do not have all the answers and may make mistakes. Be willing to learn and grow and continue to depend on God.
- Live with Integrity – Strive to live a life that is honest and upright. Good character is of tremendous value and takes time to attain but can be quickly lost if we aren’t careful.
Questions To Ask Yourself:
- What does “the fear of the Lord” mean to you, and how does it influence your daily decisions?
- How can you apply the teachings from the four poems of Lady Wisdom in your life?
- In what ways can you apply wisdom in your current circumstances?
- How do you differentiate between wise counsel and foolish advice?
- Reflect on a time when you ignored wisdom and faced the consequences. What did you learn from that experience?
Final Thoughts for this Mid-Week Study
The book of Proverbs offers timeless wisdom that is rooted in the fear and knowledge of the Lord. This summer, we will explore many more wise sayings that are certain to be eye-opening and useful. By building on foundational truth, we’ll be prepared for all kinds of situations in life and be able to make wise choices. Desire to seek God’s wisdom each day and apply it to every aspect of your life so you may live in a way that honors God and saves you much grief and regret. Make sure to choose wisdom and avoid the pitfalls of foolishness.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank you for giving us the Bible so that we can know you and so that we can know how to live a life pleasing to you. Your invaluable insight can help me live in a way that honors you and will lead to a happier life. Help me to seek your wise counsel and to apply it to everything I do. In Jesus name, amen.
Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes invites you to join us in this Sunday. Together, we can experience God’s Grace and share the love of Jesus with those around us.
