Getting Wisdom, Step 4: Read Proverbs

“The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel; to know wisdom and instruction, to perceive the words of understanding; to receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity” (Proverbs 1:1-3)

The stated purpose of Proverbs is to provide instruction in wisdom. To be wise, spend time reading Proverbs slowly. Take time to consider how each proverb applies to situations you have experienced. If you haven’t experienced the situation the proverb discusses, think of a parallel application. For example, you read the verse, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). However, you do not have any children. Consider instead how you are doing on your walk. Were you trained in the ways of the Lord? If so, have you departed from them or are they not that important to you? If you keep heading your current direction, where will you be when you are 5 years older? 10 years older? What changes should you make?

Take time to record your insights. Writing will slow you down and help you think through a proverb. Your insights will be valuable to you in years to come.

Proverbs 3:1-4 “Faithfulness to the Father’s Teaching”

(1) My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands; (2) for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you.

(3) Let not mercy and truth forsake you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart, (4) and so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man.

Chapter 3 begins with the 3^rd appeal by the father to his son, which covers verses 1-12. This appeal includes six sets of instructions. The first two sets (v. 1-4) is an exhortation to remain faithful to the father’s teaching. The last four sets (v. 5-12) is an exhortation to remain faithful to the Lord.

In the first of instructions (v. 1-2), the father urges his son not only to remember his teaching, but to put into practice the wisdom that has been taught. By living according to wise principles, the son will reap three benefits.

1. Length of days – This phrase speaks of a life lived in and satisfied only in the Lord (Deuteronomy 30:20). This life is given to those who walk in obedience (Psalm 91:16; Proverbs 3:2) and wisdom (Proverbs 3:16).
2. Long life – This includes both a life with many years and a life worth living.
3. Peace – Even though your life will be long, it will not be burdensome. You will have inward tranquility. Indeed, the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your heart and mind.

In the second set of instructions, the wise father appeals to his son not to forsake mercy and truth. Mercy and truth are to be applied externally (“bind them around your neck”) and internally (“write them on the tablet of your heart”).

The external application of mercy is performing good and charitable acts to others. The internal application is development the Godly character of mercy, of lovingkindness. This is given to those who keep His covenants and His testimonies. (Psalm 25:10)

The external application of truth is faithfulness, obedience to God by walking in His commands. The internal application is the rejection of all falsehood and hypocrisy of character.

As mercy and truth increase in your life, you will reap benefits in your relationship with both God and man. A wise man desires and seeks the favor of God and also wishes to have the favor man. These were characteristic of our Lord (Luke 2:52).

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Related Scriptures: Mat. 23:23; 1 Peter 3:3-4

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“Being all fashioned of the self-same dust, let us be merciful as well as just.” – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Proverbs 29:15 "The rod and reproof"

“The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.”

The key to effective child training is not just the ‘rod’ nor just ‘reproofs’, but both. When the rod is used, a rational, appropriate reproof should be given. This reproof clarifies the exact transgression, distinguishing good from evil. The reproof also provides instruction from the parent to the child. In this way, the child gains wisdom. The purpose of the rod is to administer required punishment for the transgression, bring the child to repentance, and provide opportunity for the reproof. One word of caution: Do not discipline your child in anger or express disgust with him. The unwise parent who displays these attitudes will prevent an environment for proper training and will not win the heart of their child.

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Related Scriptures: Proverbs 22:6, 15; 23:13-15; 29:17; Hebrews 12:10-11

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“My mother had a lot of trouble with me, but I think she enjoyed it.” – Mark Twain