Purpose of Proverbs
Today is a new year and a new blog format. One of my bible reading plans for this year is to read a chapter from the book of Proverbs each day for the year. Since there are 31 chapters in Proverbs, that means that I will essentially be reading one chapter each day. I invite you to join with me in doing this. It is something that I’ve heard others proclaim the benefits of, but have never done myself.
As far as the blog is concerned, I plan on commenting on smaller portions of each proverb. Therefore, I won’t comment on an entire proverb each day but just a section, perhaps even only a verse. I’m not sure how long I’ll be blogging on Proverbs, perhaps 6 months or so; but the journey begins today and I’m glad you’re on the journey with me. I always appreciate comments that you have and/or additions based on what you see in the text. Today we begin with the following section; Proverbs 1:1-4 The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel: 2 To know wisdom and instruction, To perceive the words of understanding, 3 To receive the instruction of wisdom, Justice, judgment, and equity; 4 To give prudence to the simple, To the young man knowledge and discretion
Most of the proverbs were written by King Solomon, given the distinction of one of the wisest men in the world. Unfortunately, for Solomon, his life didn’t end well. He fell into idolatry and other sin that really put his kingdom in a tailspin spiritually and politically. At the end of his life, Solomon definitely did not “practice what he preached”. But that doesn’t mean that what he wrote is not valuable. In fact, it is priceless. In these first four verses we see several things that we would all admit would help us out in our daily lives.
We all want to know “wisdom and instruction”. We all want to perceive the words of understanding. Through Proverbs and other parts of the Bible, we can receive these “things” from God Himself. We can receive the “instruction of wisdom, justice, judgment and equity”. These are incredible gifts from God and His word that can transform not only our lives but the lives of those around us. Proverbs is not a “magical book” but it contains great principles that will protect us and provide for us. I am especially touched by verse 4…the young man, by following the wisdom of God’s word will gain knowledge and discretion, two very significant “things” to have…but I think us “older men” and women….note I would never refer to women as “older” J can benefit from all of these words as well.
So, I hope you’ll join with me as we walk each day through the book of Proverbs. Let’s “know, perceive and receive” together!
In Wisdom,
Eric