March 10, 2014.

The book of Proverbs is a favorite amongst many Christians all around the world. The wisdom of Solomon is preserved through the verses penned in this book of solace (though not all of the book is by Solomon, as is a common misconception). What is interesting to me about the book is that after the first few chapters, most of Solomon’s wisdom comes in short couplets. There is not much said about one truth, though it may be addressed in several separate couplets. When you are reading through the book, this can become problematic, at least in my opinion, because it is hard to retain so many different ideas when they all come in one dose. I tend to read through and dwell on some that really stand out to me, and I will comment on a few today. I encourage you to read through for yourself and pick out some bits of wisdom that you can apply to your life.

“A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.”
(Proverbs 10:4)

Solomon was a big encourager of work. You can read throughout the book of Eccleasties about his idea that the work of a labor allows for a good sleep and is the gift of God. Here, the wisdom is that through diligence comes profit. Though this may seem obvious, so many forget to apply this to their lives.

“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.”
(Proverbs 10:9)

I think this truth can be applied to many aspects of our lives. One, it is much easier to tell the truth than it is to keep up with a lie. If the truth is all we tell, we won’t have to worry about mixing up the story. Solomon says it will be found out eventually if we don’t. But even more so, I think it can apply to our doctrine and teaching as well. I have come to the point, or at least I am trying to, where I am not afraid of the bible or the doctrine I teach. Why? Because I can just open up the word of God and show you why I believe a certain thing. I don’t need another document, creed or other words written by other men. I have the word of God, which is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction and instruction in righteousness (II Tim. 3:16).

“Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded.”
(Proverbs 13:13)

If you have been following my blog for any length of time at all, you should know that this is one of my favorite concepts. It is just so important. I apologize if I am boring you with this, but I want to get it through to the people of America. Truth matters. Always. We all have this innate concept of truth and fairness, even if we are not bible believers. I believe God put that in us to lead us to Him. But remember this warning, which is stated time and again through out the word. The word of God is a blessing to those who obey it, but a curse to those who do not. This is why study is so important. How can we say we love God and never pay attention to his word? Solomon would not think highly of us if we took this approach. Listen to the cry of wisdom.

There are so many others I could highlight here, but I want to give you a chance to pull out some of your own. The suggested reading contains four chapters of proverbs, starting at the couplets. What are some of your favorites?

Suggested Daily Reading: Proverbs 10-13.

The Lord grant you wisdom.

-Walter