31 DAYS TO A WISER YOU: Proverbs Chapter 2

Photo courtesy of Sierraromeo

Review
This is part of a series, studying the book of Proverbs during the month of July, 2011. For more details click here.


Theme
What strikes me so clearly as I study the book of Proverbs is that there are no contradictions contained within the 31 chapters.  Each and every line of Scripture points to an overwhelming and constant theme - the LORD is wisdom, and He shares it with us if we ask Him.

Think of the numerous contradictions we have as humans.  You'll hear someone say "The bigger the better," and then two minutes later, that same person will proclaim that "The best gifts come in small packages."  But Solomon's book contains no such errors in thought, because it was God inspired.  Each little tidbit points to living a life pleasing and satisfying to our heavenly Father.

It is our responsibility to search for wisdom and understanding.  

Key Verses to Me
Proverbs 2:5-6 - Then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.  For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Quote
In seeking wisdom thou art wise; in imagining that thou hast attained it - thou art a fool. ~ Lord Chesterfield


Related Scripture
James 1:5 - If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you.  He will not rebuke you for asking.


Prayer
Father, I ask You to impart Your wisdom to me, so that I can be a better example of what a Christian should be, and be a better servant for your Kingdom.


So what verse(s) stick out to you and why?

31 DAYS TO A WISER YOU: Proverbs Chapter 1

Photo courtesy of mosesxan 

Theme
The resounding theme of the initial chapter of Proverbs is the numerous benefits of wisdom.  Verse 2 clearly states the purpose of this book "is to teach people wisdom and discipline."  Wisdom is directly referred to 37 times in just 31 chapters, and instruction appears 26 times.  Instruction can be defined as "teaching by discipline." Over and over again, the benefits of living a wise life is spelled out as a benefit for the reader - verse 3 refers to helping people live "successful lives."

Because we are human, doing what's right does not happen naturally. Ephesians 2:3 refers to man's actions as "following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature."  So here's a whole book - 915 verses - dedicated to educating those who want to learn how to live a life benefiting from God's direction and subsequent blessing.

Doing what's right takes effort.  We need to learn how to make correct choices in life.  Our default is sinful and selfish, but with God's help and direction, we can overcome our worldly tendencies.  Over the next 31 days, my personal goal is to commit at least one truth to memory every day, so that, when the time comes, I am able to make more Christ-like decisions.  I'm excited to hear what God says to me through His word, and also to hear about what He says to each of you too.

Key Verse For Me
Proverbs 1:7 "Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline."

Quote
Wise men talk because they have something to say; fools, because they have to say something. ~Plato

Related Scripture
Galatians 6:7 "Don't be misled - you cannot mock the justice of God.  You will always harvest what you plant."

Prayer
Father, as I begin this journey of studying Proverbs to develop of stronger sense of what Your heart has for me, please guide and protect me as I draw closer to You.  "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to You, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer."

So what verse(s) stick out to you and why?