Proverbs on the Need for Wisdom
by Terry Wane Benton
This book emphasizes the importance of wisdom. The young man is encouraged to pursue wisdom, or else he will set himself up for being a loser in life. The book can be outlined as follows:
- Obtaining Knowledge and Wisdom. (Proverbs 1-2)
- Retaining Knowledge and Wisdom Because of Its Correction in Thinking. (Proverbs 3:1-12)
- The Blessings of Wisdom. (Proverbs 3:13-26)
- The Conduct of Wisdom. (Proverbs 3:27-7:27)
- The Commendation of Wisdom. (Proverbs 8:1-36)
- Wisdom’s Invitation. (Proverbs 9)
- The Proverbs that Help Us Exercise Wisdom. (Proverbs 10-31)
Solomon, by the Spirit, encourages the young man to listen with a genuine fear of the Lord (1:7) because fools despise having to use their minds. Don’t be one of them.
“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding. Exalt her (wisdom), and she will promote you; she will bring you honor when you embrace her (wisdom). She will place on your head an ornament of grace; a crown of glory she will deliver to you”(Proverbs 4:7-9). “
“For wisdom is better than rubies, and all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her” (Proverbs 8:11).
Wisdom is personified, and she says, “My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold, and my revenue than choice silver” (Proverbs 8:18). But it all begins with a fear of the Lord. We don’t have to make all the mistakes in life to learn something. We can avoid a lot of misery by listening to the voice of wisdom.
Wisdom is the ability to be discerning and aware of the lessons others learned or should have learned from their mistakes. Be wise to choose the best path for your steps. Walk with the wise, not the foolish. This book helps you to exercise your senses and make the best choices in life. Do you fear God and respect Him enough to listen and learn?
