Proverbs: Biblical Wisdom for a Fortune Cookie WorldSample

Day 1: What is a Proverb?

The dictionary defines a proverb as, “a wise saying or precept, a didactic sentence.”  On its face, the book of Proverbs is exactly that: a Biblical book of wise sayings and/or precepts that have been gathered together to provide instruction for its readers.  But what if the book of Proverbs is something more?  Something more than just a wise saying or thought that is read, and then discarded, much like the fortune on that little slip of paper one gets out of a cookie after a meal at a favorite Chinese food restaurant?

The book of Proverbs IS more than a collection of cleverly expressed teachings.  It is God’s wisdom for righteous living!  In many ways, it is like an instructional manual for everyday life!  In this study, we will examine some of the key areas or themes the book of Proverbs addresses, and discuss how we can practically apply those principles in our lives.

First Things First

The book of Proverbs covers a multitude of topics.  It addresses everything from personal finance and general commerce, to marriage and other relationships.  However, it starts by first laying a foundation upon which all of the instruction for these other topics can be built. The very first proverb is:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge
but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

This fear is not a fear like the fear one has of snakes, or heights, or something scary.  Instead, it is an AWE and/or healthy respect of who God is.  He is the creator of everything, the master of the universe and He DESERVES our respect!

For a moment, let us consider how we view God.  Do we think of Him as our personal genie, here to grant our every wish, OR do we approach Him with the awe and respect that is due to the ultimate ruler of everything?  If it is the latter, we will heed His instruction and cherish His wisdom by doing what He says.

Focus for Today

Today, let’s focus on giving God the respect He deserves and striving to follow His instructions!  Remember, it ALL starts with GOD and ultimately, EVERYTHING is about HIM!