Wisdom and the Fear of the Lord – Proverbs chapter 1, verses 1 to 7
Living wisely in God’s world
From the Wall Street Journal. “What happens when an entire generation never grows up?” Sometimes we just don’t know how to do LIFE. We live in an age of information and knowledge, yet we still struggle to do life, to grow up.
Navigating the complexities of life
This is where wisdom comes in. God’s wisdom, shown us in Proverbs.
The Author of Proverbs
The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel:
Proverbs 1:1
Wisdom from God, for young King Solomon knew that he needed it, and asked for it. This is always the best first step. “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” James 1:5
The Aim of Proverbs
for gaining wisdom and instruction;
Proverbs 1:2-6
for understanding words of insight;
3 for receiving instruction in prudent behaviour,
doing what is right and just and fair;
4 for giving prudence to those who are simple,
knowledge and discretion to the young –
5 let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance –
6 for understanding proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise.
Not merely to know, but to train us in discernment in the decisions of life.
But some cautions:-
- These are general rules, principles not promises. They are “generally” true.
- We must avoid legalism and moralism. Loving a good life yet missing the giver of life.
- We must be careful of gaining knowledge without wisdom.
The Theme of Proverbs
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
Proverbs 1:7
but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
“It [the fear of the Lord] is that affectionate reverence by which the child of God bends himself humbly and carefully to his Father’s law…” – Charles Bridges
God is our true north, and the fear of the Lord our magnetic compass.
“But fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
How do we find success in life? By fearing the Lord.
