Focus before you need. . .
Today’s reading invites us to dig deeply into the nature of God’s wisdom. In Chapter 8, wisdom is personified to highlight both its importance and its specific characteristics. As you read this proverb, pay close attention to the foundational role wisdom plays in all of life. In the next chapter, Solomon extends this discussion, this time underscoring the contrast between wisdom and folly by portraying each as rival young woman preparing for a feast. Which invitation will you accept? How do you know if one is living according to God’s wisdom? Ask yourself these questions as you study these two proverbs carefully.
Questions to ask as you read. . .
- “To fear the Lord is to hate evil” (8:13). What do you hate?
- What role did wisdom play in the creation of the world? How does this proverb compare to God’s response to Job? Read Colossians 1:15-17. What role did Christ play in creation?
- How does a wise man respond to correction? How does a mocker respond? How do you respond to correction?
Application to make after you read. . .
Wisdom, according to 8:10, begins with the “fear of the Lord.” What does it mean to fear the Lord? Christ’s death and resurrection have made it possible for us to have reconciliation with the Father. As Paul writes, “since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand (Romans 5:1-2). This relationship, however, should in no way lessen our awe of and respect for God—and our total dependence upon Him for an abundant life on earth and eternal joy in heaven. Wisdom begins with a right view of God. Everything we do and say is a reflection of what we think about God. Do you believe that God really loves you and has a perfect plan for your life? Or are you “leaning on your understanding” for your future? Do you take the study and application of God’s word seriously? Or do you place yourself above scripture, picking and choosing which commandments to follow?
Prayer
Father, help us to understand in our minds that all wisdom comes from You. Help us to know in our hearts that You are more precious than anything this world has to offer. Help us to apply this knowledge to our daily actions in a way that points others to the way, the truth, and the life.
