Read Proverbs 1

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs 1&version=NIV

Digging Deeper:

In Proverbs 1, there are three parts. The first part, encompassing the first seven verses, establishes the foundation of the book. The concept of the "fear of the Lord" is introduced, suggesting that God is a source of joy when near to Him but should be a fear when distant from Him. This fear is not about trembling in fright but a deep reverence and acknowledgment of the power of God, including the consequences of being separated from God. It brings so much peace and joy to be close to such a powerful God. God is good. He warns us of sin to protect us out of that love. So we should be fearful when we are doing the things this very powerful, loving, and good God warned us about. It involves fearing the destruction caused by sin and understanding the dangers of living a life apart from God.

For a woman of God, embracing the fear of the Lord is crucial. A true woman of God, one who possesses this fear, won't easily stray from Him to pursue personal desires or succumb to anxieties. The fear of God keeps her close, making the idea of turning away into sin a frightening prospect. This fear marks the beginning of wisdom.

The following verses (8-19) serve as a warning against the allure of sin. Sin may appear enticing, offering temporary pleasure, but it inevitably leads to pain. While resisting temptation may be challenging in the moment, it ultimately leads to life. Wisdom lies in understanding the danger of sin, enabling the wise to flee from its enticement.

The final part portrays wisdom as a personified woman, loudly proclaiming her presence for all to hear. This serves as an encouragement, emphasizing that anyone can find wisdom. It is readily available within the pages of Proverbs, and its call is resounding, urging individuals to grasp and comprehend its teachings!!!

Questions:

  1. What does it look like for you to fear the Lord?
  2. Where may the enticement of sin be most tempting for you? How can you be proactive in the fight to flee this?
  3. Commit a time and place. Wisdom is here and available for you. Commit a time and place everyday where you will read a chapter.