Proverbs 1

Overview

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of all knowledge"Proverbs 1:7. In the bible, wisdom means something different than what it means in modern times. As opposed to being intelligent or possessing a lot of knowledge, it means the ability to live up to the Lord's standards. This line on just the seventh verse of the chapter sets up the rest of the book. It tells us that it is our responsibility, our burden, to choose the way of the Lord and only in that can we truly find widsom and salvation.

This point of view is validated quickly the next verses focus on the enticement of Sinners. Do not be tempted, the proverbs say: "my son, do not walk in the way with them"Proverbs 1:15. This is not the path to wisdom and salvation, instead: "these men lie in wait for their own blood; they set an ambush for their own lives"Proverbs 1:18. In other words, sinners deny themselves of wisdom and of righteousness.

But this is not what the Lord wants. Wisdom presents itself to everyone, ready to be adopted at a moment's notice. "Wisdom cries aloud in the street, in the markets she raises her voice"Proverbs 1:20. And, while some disregard this call, those who turn to the Lord are rewarded: "whoever listens to me will dwell secure and be at east, without dread of disaster"Proverbs 1:33