Proverbs 1:1-7 – 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.
Exodus
31:2-5 – “See, I
have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have
filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with
knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver
and bronze, to cut and set
stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts.
James 1:5 – 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.
Application:
- · Wisdom and instruction are the two primary virtues in the long list that articulates the purpose of the book. Wisdom and instruction are repeated at the end, the phrase thus frames the entire prologue. Wisdom occurs more than 40 times in the book. It includes skill in living—following God’s design and thus avoiding moral pitfalls. A craftsman can be called a wise man. Proverbs urges people to get wisdom, for it is worth more than silver of gold. The New Testament refers to Christ as “wisdom from God”.
- · “Fools” are those who “hate knowledge” and correction of any kind, who are “quick to quarrel” and “give full vent” to their anger, who are complacent and who trust in themselves rather than in God.
- · Ability to work skillfully in all kinds of crafts was a spiritual gift, equipping a person for special service to God.
- · Wisdom enables one to face trials with “pure joy”. Wisdom is not just acquired information but practical insight with spiritual implications.
All Scripture verses taken from NIV
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