How to Learn and Live by the Proverbs

The Bible is a book like no other. It was written for all of us to learn from. It is a book of instruction to mankind. All of the books in the Bible are important. They all teach something, somehow, showing us right from wrong. The Proverbs is an easy to read and understand book of the Bible. It located in the old testament right after the Psalms.

The Proverbs were written by Solomon who was the son of King David. He was the King of Israel before Christ was born. There are thirty one chapters in the book of Proverbs.

Wisdom and instruction are mentioned in the first lines of the proverbs. So is understanding. The beginning lines also mention knowledge. All of these things are key factors in living a successful life. Fools don't succeed but rather the wise do. Instruction is the way to being wise. We seek knowledge to gain understanding and wisdom. The more we do so the more we improve and succeed in life. This includes all aspects of life including but not limited to relationships, and our productivity levels at work.

When you get to chapter three you'll find something interesting. The fifth line states "Trust in the Lord with all of your heart, and lean not on your own understanding." The sixth line says "In all ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths". Our understanding is so limited in so many ways. Many things are simply beyond our understanding. There is so much more to know than what we do. Trust that He does know. Trust that you will be kept on the path you are meant to be on. So long as that trust is present He will not let you stray from it.

In the forth chapter the first line advises to hear the instruction of a father. God refers to himself as our father and advises us to hear him speak as a father does to his children. The line after that says "And give attention to know understanding." Understanding to what? To the importance of gaining knowledge and wisdom. To the fact that He is offering to guide and direct you. Understanding to right vs. wrong the consequences held when one does not live in a righteous way.

Jumping ahead a little to the eleventh chapter you'll see on line three that it states "The integrity of the upright will guide them but the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them." It's all about the choices we make. When we make good choices we progress and live happily. When we make bad choices and do bad things the results of our actions or doings become our consequence. Live in an acceptable and positive way and prosper. Choose not to and suffer from your own doings.

The thirteenth chapter offers good advice for many. On line three it states that "He who guards his mouth preserves his life but he who opens wide his lips shall have destruction." When you speak make sure the words you are saying are not hurting others. Choose not to speak lies or gossip. We communicate by speaking. Speak nicely. Appropriately. Words can hurt far worse than fits. Words can be sharper than a sword. Choose not to speak in a way that is unkind. Your words will come back to haunt you. When we speak to others kindly we get spoken to kindly in return. You are also speaking in a righteous way.

Skipping even farther ahead to the twenty fourth chapter you'll find advice about not desiring to be with evil men. If someone you know is trouble it is best to avoid them. Don't hang around people who will only bring you down. Associate with others who live in a positive way. This is especially important for teens. If someone is trouble just stay away from them.

In the last chapters of the book of Proverbs fear is mentioned several times. Fear hinders us. It holds us back. One who is trusting in Him has no reason to fear. Fear keeps us from making progress. It limits our knowledge and understanding. The wise are not fearful because they know better than to be. Thanks for reading and take care!