We begin Proverbs today in our Spoken Word Bible Reading Plan. Let's look at verses 1:1-5:
1 The proverbs (truths obscurely expressed, maxims, and parables) of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: 2 That people may know skillful and godly Wisdom and instruction, discern and comprehend the words of understanding and insight, 3 Receive instruction in wise dealing and the discipline of wise thoughtfulness, righteousness, justice, and integrity, 4 That prudence may be given to the simple, and knowledge, discretion, and discernment to the youth— 5 The wise also will hear and increase in learning, and the person of understanding will acquire skill and attain to sound counsel [so that he may be able to steer his course rightly]—
"Proverb" is the Hebrew word "mashal", which means: a pithy maxim; a simile; an aphorism; a parable; sentences of ethical wisdom. A "maxim" is a short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct. "Pithy" is concise and forcefully expressive, full of vigor, substance or meaning. The truths found in this book of the Bible are just that! Solomon, who was the wisest person of his time (1 Kings 4:29-31), shares this wisdom in Proverbs. After he allowed foreign wives to turn him away from God, He wrote the book of Ecclesiastes, which shows the opposite of wisdom. And it is ALL for OUR benefit (2 Timothy 3:16-17)!
We see in the verses above that the purpose for this wisdom teaching is so that we can gain wisdom and understanding in order to operate, to the fullest extent, according to the plans and purposes of God (Jeremiah 29:11). The very most important verse, I believe, in all of Proverbs is found in verse 7:
7 The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning and the principal and choice part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]; but fools despise skillful and godly Wisdom, instruction, and discipline.
The very first step in gaining this precious wisdom and understanding of the Word of God, and His plans and purposes for us, is to obey this verse! The fear of the Lord is having respect, reverence and awe at His presence! THIS will cause us to be in the very best position to receive wisdom and understanding! AMEN! Here is a song of reverence and awe for Who HE is by Hillsong called "For Who You Are":
Shalom in Him!
