Lessons in Proverbs 1

Day 28 - a Year with God

Marilyn Quinn
I have never been able to read the Bible start to finish, in order. Lately I skip around and pick up on verses that are addressing my current situation. Several friends have suggested that I spend some time reading Proverbs. One chapter a day until I have made it through all thirty-one of them. They start from Proverb 1 on the first of every month and continue on during the month; however, never being one to wait to start something good, I am starting today.

The book of Proverbs is referred to as wisdom literature, as well as some other books. I am certainly ready for some wisdom and instruction.

The first chapter sets forth the purpose of Proverbs, which is for gaining wisdom.

"The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: For gaining wisdom and being instructed; for understanding insightful sayings; for receiving wise instruction in righteousness, justice, and integrity;"

Proverbs 1:1-3

Pretty straightforward; you are to read proverbs with a desire to gain wisdom and be instructed. This sets a tone for the frame of mind and the openness of spirit you should be reading Proverbs in.

"My son, if sinners entice you, don't be persuaded." Proverbs 1:10

This next part is written about violence and attacking people to profit from taking their things. We shouldn't partake in that type of violence, but I think there is a more basic message; which is to avoid being enticed by sinners in anything.

Have you noticed that when someone is involved in something sinful, they usually want to bring someone else into it with them? This brings to mind my previous article on the importance of the company we keep. If you are in the company of sinners, they will expect you to be involved with them. You will be enticed and tempted by them.

Not only should you not be persuaded; I think you should avoid such people when possible so as not to create an enticing situation.

The final part of chapter one is a plea from Wisdom. Here Wisdom is personified and is saying that you should learn from her and be safe; refusal to learn will mean destruction. While these may seem like harsh statements, I think it speaks to the importance of being wise and accepting the instruction.

"For the waywardness of the inexperienced will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them. But whoever listens to me will live securely and be free form the fear of danger." Proverbs 1:32-33

Resources

Day 27 - St. Patrick, Ireland & The Catholic Church

Day 10 - The Importance of The Company We Keep

Wikipedia - Book of Proverbs

Christnotes.org - Commentary on Proverbs 1

Published by Marilyn Quinn

Featured Video Games Contributor, Freelance writer, voracious reader, mother of four, wife and gamer who lives just minutes outside Albuquerque, in Rio Rancho, NM!  View profile

1 Comments

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  • Steve Ellison3/21/2010

    Thanks for sharing and good luck on your journey in the Scripture.

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