Wisdom Literature Part 08

Proverbs 2 and 3 contrast the way of the wise and the way of fools. The clear message is that each person chooses their outcomes based on the choices that they make. God gives us choices and the information necessary to make good choices, yet He never makes the choice for us. He wants to see what choices we make when given the option. Galatians 6:7 says “do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” The Book of Proverbs encourages readers to make good decisions and sow good seeds. Proverbs 2:1-9 states, 

“My son, if you receive my words, and treasure my commands within you, so that you incline your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding; yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.  

For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright, He is a shield to those who walk uprightly; He guards the paths of justice, and preserves the way of His saints then you will understand righteousness and justice, equity and every good path” (emphasis added). 

In this passage we can notice the number of action words used. This again shows us that God wants us to take action—seek, apply, search, do something! On the other hand, there are many verses in Proverbs that show how much God despises laziness,

“The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing; But the soul of the diligent shall be made rich” (Proverbs 13:4). 

This applies not just to physical riches, but more importantly spiritual richness!  

Next, let’s notice the if/then statements used. If we treasure, incline, apply, cry out, lift up, seek and search then God will give, shield, guard and preserve. There are benefits and blessings that come to applying wisdom and living a life of seeking out God and His way. 

Proverbs 3 is similar to a letter from a father to his son. The father wants the best for his son.  He says "do not forget . . . keep my commands . . . hang on to them . . . trust in the Lord . . . fear the Lord . . . Honor the Lord." We can feel the emotion in the tone of his words. He wants what is best for his son, and by extension, us too!   

Taking this encouragement requires humility and the willingness to be taught. Are we coachable? If so, the words brought to us by the authors of Proverbs, who were inspired by God, can help us become the best that we can be. 

John 10:10 records Christ’s words,

“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” 

Satan would love to steal our potential, kill our dreams and destroy our future. Our Older Brother Jesus Christ and His true messengers want us to have the best life possible. There is no book intended to give us more practical, applicable wisdom than Proverbs. IF we take it and have a humble, teachable heart.   

Proverbs 3:13-15 describes the outcome of those who are willing to listen:  

“Happy is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding; for her [wisdom personified] proceeds are better than the profits of silver and her gain than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies, and all the things you may desire cannot compare with her."

God wants us to experience the very best of all that life has to offer, and His word defines the way to optimal living. In tomorrow’s lesson, we will explore the major themes of the book of Proverbs and consider the areas of life that we receive instruction. 

UYA Team | uya@ucg.org  

United Young Adults (UYA) primarily serves the 18–32-year age group for the United Church of God. There are three main areas of contribution to the lives of the young adults: Promoting Spiritual Growth, Developing Meaningful Relationships, and Making the Most of Your Talents. The Know Your Sword series is a daily expository message introducing God’s Word from a trusted perspective.