The Book of Wisdom
The book of Proverbs offers practical wisdom for daily living, providing guidance on relationships, work, speech, and character. Primarily attributed to King Solomon, known for his divinely-granted wisdom, the book begins by explaining its purpose: to impart wisdom, discipline, and understanding to those who would learn.
Proverbs uses memorable, poetic language to contrast the paths of wisdom and folly, showing how our choices shape our character and ultimately our destiny. The opening chapter lays the foundation for the entire book by establishing the basis and benefits of true wisdom.
Proverbs 1:1-7 (NIV):
"The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight; for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young—let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance—for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction."
The book immediately establishes its practical purpose—not abstract philosophy but guidance for right living. It addresses a wide audience: the simple need prudence, the young need knowledge, and even the wise can increase their learning. This inclusivity suggests that wisdom is a lifelong pursuit, not a destination.
Verse 7 provides the foundational principle of all biblical wisdom: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge." This reverent awe of God serves as the starting point for true wisdom, distinguishing it from mere intelligence or cunning.
The chapter continues with parental advice to embrace wisdom's instruction and avoid the path of sinners who entice others into wrongdoing:
Proverbs 1:8-10 (NIV):
"Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck. My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them."
The remainder of the chapter personifies wisdom as a woman calling out in public places, offering her guidance freely to all who will listen. Yet many reject her counsel, leading to tragic consequences:
Proverbs 1:20-22, 24-25, 28-31 (NIV):
"Out in the open wisdom calls aloud, she raises her voice in the public square; on top of the wall she cries out, at the city gate she makes her speech: 'How long will you who are simple love your simple ways?
How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge?'... 'But since you refuse to listen when I call and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand, since you disregard all my advice and do not accept my rebuke'...
'Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me, since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord. Since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes.'"
Lesson:
Proverbs 1 teaches us that true wisdom begins with reverence for God. The "fear of the Lord" is not terror but an awe-filled respect that acknowledges God's authority and submits to His ways.
This perspective forms the foundation for all other wisdom and distinguishes godly wisdom from mere human cleverness.
The chapter also demonstrates that wisdom is available but must be actively pursued. Wisdom calls out publicly, offering herself freely, but we must choose to listen and respond.
Growth in wisdom requires deliberate attention to instruction and a humble willingness to receive correction.
Furthermore, this passage warns that our response to wisdom has consequences. Those who repeatedly reject wisdom's call eventually find themselves in situations where knowledge comes too late.
The principle of reaping what we sow means we "eat the fruit of our ways," whether sweet or bitter.
Finally, Proverbs 1 illustrates how wisdom is relational, not merely intellectual. The parental language throughout the chapter and the personification of wisdom as one who calls, instructs, and responds show that wisdom flourishes within relationships.
We grow wise not in isolation but through receiving instruction from God and from wise counselors He places in our lives.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we acknowledge that all true wisdom begins with reverent awe of You. Guard us from the pride that would seek knowledge apart from Your truth or that would reject Your instruction.
Give us attentive hearts to hear wisdom's call amidst the competing voices in our world. When loving parents, faithful friends, or spiritual leaders offer guidance that aligns with Your Word, help us receive it with humility.
Protect us from the enticements of those who would lead us down destructive paths, and give us courage to stand firm in what is right. We confess the times we have ignored wisdom's call and experienced the painful consequences of our choices.
Renew in us a desire to seek wisdom diligently, knowing that You generously give wisdom to all who ask in faith. May Your wisdom guide our decisions, shape our character, and direct our paths today and always.
In Your holy name we pray, Amen.