“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Proverbs 1:7
but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Proverbs 1:7
The first seven verses in Proverbs 1 give an overview of the book and its purpose
of gaining wisdom. It is a God designed three step journey that points us in the
direction of right thinking and a life lived for Him. Step 1 is knowledge and it
begins with the intentional pursuit of divine revelation from God’s Word of godly
wisdom with reliance upon the Holy Spirit so we know how to act ourselves and
give instruction to others. Step 2 is understanding, which is God-delivered and
grace empowered, and is applying what we know to everyday life so we can
distinguish between truth and falsehood. Step 3 is wisdom and it is made real
by a Christ centered and Bible shaped lifestyle in everything.
According to Proverbs 1:1-7, proverbs are written down so we know how to live
and to understand what life means. The Book of Proverbs is a manual for living
and learning what is right in the relationship between God and man. There is
something for everyone - the young, inexperienced, as well as seasoned believers.
Wisdom starts with God and the first step is the fear or reverence of the Lord.
God is to be respected, loved, served and worshiped plus every thought brought
into obedience to him and everything done to please Him.
The remainder of chapter 1 cautions about living wisely which means being careful
not to be enticed by those who pursue evil, even though it seems good, it leads to
spiritual death. Wisdom is also personified as a woman who warns not to neglect
the pursuit of wisdom, encourages seeking truth and shows the compassion and
patience of God is not limitless.
Joyce
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