Wisdom and Instruction (article) by Stanley T. Crawford on AuthorsDen

Commentary on Provebs 1:1-7. Solomon is credited with writing the book of Proverbs. He wrote the majority of the book. Other authors are referred to in later portions of Proverbs. Solomon was the son of King David (Proverbs 1:1, II Samuel 12:24 & 25). Proverbs is applicable to any man or woman willing to listen to its wisdom. For that matter, it would benefit every boy and girl who reads Proverbs. Of course, guidance from a knowledgeable adult would be necessary for certain scriptures. Proverbs will impart wisdom to those who take its words to heart (Proverbs 1:2). When we read Proverbs we see most aspects of life addressed. Proverbs speaks of ones youth, examples: Proverbs 1:8 & 9, Proverbs 6:20, and Proverbs 10:11. Again, this book instructs those who take it to heart (Proverbs 1:3). Examples of this are found in: Proverbs 4:20-22, Proverbs 20:22, and Proverbs 22:17 – 19. Much wisdom is presented to youth. A young adult can gain knowledge and discretion from the study of Proverbs (Proverbs 1:4). This is very important in our society today. Some examples to support this point: Proverbs 3:1 -8, Proverbs 14:29, Proverbs 15:1, Proverbs 20:1, Proverbs 21:17, and Proverbs 22:1. In addition, some of the scriptures in Proverbs are applicable to both males and females, even though male terminology is used. In other cases the wisdom is related directly to the sex mentioned. Reading, study, and prayer will guide you in these cases. Examples of guidance for young adults, and mature adults: Proverbs 5:1 – 5, Proverbs 14:1, Proverbs 20:4, and Proverbs 24:1. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge……. Proverbs 1:7." This fear should result in reverence for God. Sometimes people are critical of fear, but in God's view, fear is an adequate response to him. When you think about the power that God possesses, there isn't any other action that man should have towards God and his Son, Jesus. Fear of God doesn't mean hiding behind things to avoid God, since he is God that wouldn't do any good anyway. A good comparison that we can relate to is the fear that we have of our parents, principal, and teachers. We don't normally run and hide from them, at least not unless we have done something that we know is greatly wrong. Fear in these cases often results from knowing what is expected and desiring not to disappoint the person. Major disappointments often bring on unwanted consequences. Yet these consequences are the result of the choices that we make. Two scriptures (1-Old Testament and 1-New Testament) that come to mind are: Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man's all. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil. Ecclesiastes 12:13&14 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Matthew 10:28 In conclusion, Proverbs is a book that can assist in guiding one through life. It is practical and applicable to our lives today. Whether you are young or old, if you read, study, and pray over its contents you will increase your wisdom. In this world, can anyone ever truly have to much wisdom? Copyright 2003, Stanley T. Crawford, is the editor of, “People of the Bible,” and webmaster of http://www.whatismyname.com. All Rights Reserved. mailto:scrawford(at)whatismyname.com
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