Proverbs 1:1-7: God’s Instruction
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
To instruct the young, and to encourage the wise. These are the goals of the Book of Proverbs. Over the next days, we will explore this didactic poetry whose primary our purpose is to teach wisdom. We notice specific words and phrases.
Wisdom and discipline – Do we notice that those who are wise live a disciplined life. They pray regularly and consult God before drawing conclusions or making decisions.
Words of intelligence – Do we see that those who are intelligent willingly consult God as a primary resource?
What is right, just and honest – Can we define these qualities or are we willing to allow God to unfold these talents in us?
Resourcefulness – Do we think of wisdom as a source of our own creativity?
Knowledge and discretion – How well do we handle the emotions and feelings of others? What do we do with the information that comes our way?
Sound guidance – God gives us constant direction, even when we do not hear or see it. Are we open to the presence of the Spirit in all ways and on all days?
Proverb and parable – We open ourselves to the great wealth the proverbs bring to us; and we realize that our lives are living parables to others. Do we live each day as if we believe this?
Riddles of the wise – The mystery of God’s wisdom rests in the words of sacred scripture and in the healing presence of Jesus among us. Are we willing to trust the riddle of wisdom that lives in our hearts?
Awe of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; wisdom and instruction fools despise . . . Are these words we can believe? Can we allow our actions each day to rise from the wisdom God has planted in us? Do we hope to be numbered among the wise, or are we content to find company with fools?
When we compare different versions of these verses, we find wisdom awaiting us with open arms.
Image from: https://powertochange.com/studies/the-pathway-to-wisdom/
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