Year of the Bible: Week 23
As we begin in Proverbs, considered the book of wisdom, it is important to read the book not as God’s law or prophetic speaking from God. The wisdom it teaches is an accumulation of knowledge received from God written by mainly King Solomon. King Solomon ask for Godly wisdom in his leadership (1 Kings 3) and God granted his request and more. We may ask ourselves if this outpouring of wisdom from God is still available to us today?
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; But fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Proverbs 1:7 NKJV
Some translations have the first section of chapter 1 titled “The beginning of knowledge.” Verse 7 is the first of many times in this book that we will read the phrase “the fear of the Lord.” This fear is not referring to a terror of a tyrant, but rather a kind of awe and respect of who God is that leads to obedience. Much like you must build trust and respect for an elder before following their guidance, we must first realize the power of who our God is before acquiring His knowledge.
We must first realize the power of who our God is before acquiring His knowledge.
God still wants to give us this knowledge that, with deep understanding, brings His wisdom. What are we first doing to seek it? Are we crying out to God for discernment? Have we developed a fear of the Lord that will help us find this knowledge of God? This reading reminds us that we must be teachable. Never stop seeking answers in God’s word. There is always more that we can learn and deeper that we can dive to build a more rounded understanding.
“…if you cry out for discernment…” Proverbs 2:3 NKJV
“Then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:5-6 NKJV
When you have this knowledge and discernment, walk in the ways of the righteous, and you will be rewarded. Not in a cause-and-effect exchange with God, but rather as a sowing and reaping. As you seek God further, He pours out to you too. Many Proverbs are short statements, easy to memorize, and will act as guideposts in your life for years to come. Begin to write these words on your heart. Share them with your children. God wants to bring you His wisdom.