A Refresher Course on Wisdom

Several years ago I did a study on chapter one of Proverbs.  I had forgotten all about it until God laid it in my lap as a reminder last evening.  I was feeling rather sorry for myself, wishing my house were bigger and a few other things.  In other words, I was acting like a spoiled brat.  These words refreshed my spirit and allowed me to seek forgiveness and freedom.  I hope they are enjoyed by many.

The purpose of the book of Proverbs, according to verse two of chapter one, is for the reader to know wisdom and instruction.  The Hebrew word is yada (yaw - dah') and has many inferences.  The one I like most, whether Solomon meant it this way or not, is "to become a familiar friend with."  I want to know wisdom and instruction thoroughly, because they come solely from Father God.

The fear of God is the beginning of this process.  The Hebrew word here is yirah (yir - aw') meaning a reverential fear, exceedingly so.  Most of the time we fear man more than God.  What a very small amount of wisdom we must really possess in order for this to be true.

Verse nineteen is a verse to cause fear of God.  "So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain; It takes away the life of its owners." NKJ  The temptation for greed is a strong one; thus all the casinos, gambling boats, "friendly" games of poker, sweepstakes, lotteries, bingo, etc.  They take our focus off the One True Supplier of all our needs and make us feel as if we have control.  However, according to this verse, greed is in league with death and is out to do no more than destroy us.

Verse twenty-five is another eye-opener.   Wisdom says to us: "Because you disdained all my (wisdom) counsel, and would have none of my reproof, I will also laugh at your calamity....Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; they will seek me diligently, but they will not find Me.  (End verse 28)

When wisdom "stands in the streets calling to us," we'd better heed. If we do, we have the promise of verse thirty-three: "But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure without fear of evil."
The Hebrew word for fear here is ra (rah') meaning everything evil - calamity, harm, adversity, etc.

Proverbs implores us to side with wisdom.  Wisdom does not hide in secret making it difficult to find.  Rather she stands in the streets, calling us by name, begging us to listen.  I want to listen.