Words to Live By (Proverbs)

A soft answer turns away wrath.” “Pride goes before a fall.” “A cheerful heart is good medicine.” You may have heard these sayings before, but did you know they (and countless others) originated from the Bible? They all came from the book of Proverbs, specifically Proverbs 15:1, 16:18, and 17:22. We hear the word often, but what exactly is a proverb? Well, a proverb is a generalized statement that applies to most situations and expresses good advice and important truth to guide and instruct in life (Proverbs 1:1-7). The book of Proverbs in the Bible is a collection of those wise sayings. Often they contrast the difference between the “righteous and the wicked” or the “wise and the fool.” Much of the book of Proverbs is written by Solomon, a king of Israel. God told Solomon to ask for whatever he wanted and He would give it to him, and Solomon asked for wisdom. But then what is wisdom? Many dictionaries will mention good judgment or discernment between right and wrong. Many people associate wisdom with age or gray hair—so does that mean you only gain wisdom from experience? Does wisdom have some connection with knowledge and facts? The world might connect any of those things with wisdom, but Proverbs goes deeper than those things alone. The Bible emphasizes true wisdom comes only from God (Colossians 2:3). Maybe you’re having trouble with friends, are in a conflict with a family member, or have to make an important decision about a job or your education. Have you taken a moment to pray about it? We, as humans, often try to rely on our own flawed wisdom, but Jesus offers something different. The Bible says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5). Trust in Him, because He will make the right choice clear (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Abby Ciona • Read 1 Kings 3:3-14. What does Solomon’s choice say about the value of having wisdom? • After reading some of Proverbs, has your perspective on wisdom changed? Why or why not? The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7 (NIV)

Read Verses:

1 Kings 3:3-14