Proverbs 1-9 showed us the characteristics of the wise and foolish using personification. We have met the characters of “Wisdom” and “Folly” (aka “the adulterous woman”) already in Proverbs 1-8, and Proverbs 9 brings them together in one chapter. Below is a commentary that explains these differences :)
“First, we see that wisdom values preparation; folly finds convenience. Wisdom prepares a place for those who are inexperienced, providing shelter and nourishment, investing in others. Folly, on the other hand, invests no effort, choosing to sit on her front porch and speak to those who happen by her way.
Next, we see that wisdom instructs; folly distracts. Wisdom broadcasts the call to come so that everyone can hear the invitation. She recognizes the cacophony of messages in this world and clearly tells all to come to her for help. Folly, meanwhile, distracts passers-by from their efforts, keeping them from their purpose.
Finally, wisdom offers meaning, but folly offers emptiness. Wisdom invites everyone to a safe place to learn truth and to live a meaningful life. Folly has nothing to offer but empty words and bad ideas that lead to death.”
We have these same choices every single day. Maybe it looks like, the difference between diving into God’s Word each morning or going back to sleep. Maybe it’s investing in a friend’s needs or buying something we don’t need. Or perhaps for you it’s thinking and spending time on worldly things instead of learning about Godly things. What are you going to choose.