Proverbs: #1 - Wisdom for Godly Living
Title of the Study: Five Key Benefits of Reading
Key Themes and Scriptures:
The foundation of wisdom is reverence for God.
Wisdom is not just intellectual but moral and spiritual.
Christ as the ultimate wisdom of God.
Key Scripture:
Proverbs 9:10
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
Explanation:
This verse teaches that true wisdom begins with fearing the Lord, which means to have awe, reverence, and submission to God. Proverbs frames wisdom not as the accumulation of facts but as living rightly in relationship with God.
Without this reverence, no real wisdom can be found. This wisdom helps us navigate life with moral clarity, spiritual strength, and godly perspective.
Christ Connection:
Christ is the embodiment of God’s wisdom. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:30, “Christ…has become for us wisdom from God.”
When we know Christ, we receive divine wisdom that helps us live godly lives, fulfilling what Proverbs points us toward.
Commentary Insight (Matthew Henry):
“True wisdom begins and ends in God. To fear Him is not only the first lesson but the sum total of all wisdom.”
Three Scriptures that Highlight the Subject:
Proverbs 1:7
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Ask: What is your understanding of this scripture?
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
Ask: What is your understanding of this scripture?
1 Corinthians 1:24
“But to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.”
Ask: What is your understanding of this scripture?
Discussion Questions (Life Application):
How would your life look different if you consistently sought wisdom from God before making decisions?
What are some areas in your life where you’ve relied more on your own understanding than God’s wisdom?
How does recognizing Christ as the wisdom of God shape the way you approach reading Proverbs or any scripture?
Action Steps (Next Two Weeks):
Daily Reading: Read one chapter of Proverbs each day, asking God for wisdom before you begin.
Prayer Focus: Each morning, pray specifically for wisdom in one area of your life (e.g., relationships, work, finances).
Seek Counsel: Identify one godly person you can ask for advice or insight on a specific challenge you are facing.
Go Round the Room – Key Takeaway:
Ask each person: What is one key thing you’re taking away from today’s study that you want to apply to your life?