PROVERBS 7 AND 8

There is nothing I can add to Proverbs 7 that would wake you up or explain anything better then the way that TPT version of the Bible lays it out. So, I encourage you, if you have been struggling with lust, pornography, sexual immorality, or adultery read it as your guide. Literally, thank you God for Proverbs! On that note we are going to pick up in Proverbs 8.

Proverbs 8 (TPT) is an absolutely beautiful illustration of what wisdom can do for your life. You will remember that Solomon is the writer of Proverbs. He is also the man who had the chance to receive anything he asked for from God and he chose wisdom. It’s important to remember this before reading the things that he writes about wisdom because more than anyone else in the world, Solomon knew the blessing the gift of wisdom can be.  It’s hard for us to even understand being given this particular gift. Wisdom isn’t something we can always measure easily so how to we know we have it. We know Solomon had it because the Bible tells us he did. When we read Solomon’s account of the value of wisdom, we can know he lived with it daily. He walked in it and used it as he reigned as king.

Let’s dive in.

Proverbs 8:1-3 – “Can’t you hear the voice of Wisdom? From the top of the mountains of influence she speaks into the gateways of the glorious city. At the place where pathways merge, at the entrance of every portal, there she stands, ready to impart understanding, shouting aloud to all who enter, preaching her sermon to those who will listen. ‘I’m calling to you, sons of Adam, yes, and to you daughters as well. Listen to me and you will be prudent and wise. For even the foolish and feeble can receive an understanding heart that will change their inner being.’ ”

I have always loved the start of this chapter. I love how loud and confident wisdom in. It says that she stands, she shouts, and she preaches to those who will listen. She believes in what she is saying. She is not bothered by what people think, because she knows what she is saying is powerful. Have you ever felt confident about something you were saying or doing because you knew it was true? That is the feeling wisdom can give you. It’s a confidence in who you are and what you say.  Wisdom lets you not worry about the reaction of others, and to not hide the truth that you know. Wisdom brings out the boldness in you and stirs up the passion.

I also love how this verse says even the foolish can receive it and it will change their inner most being! Wisdom is not just for the smart people or those with power or prestige; it is for everyone who seeks it.

See! Wisdom knows she is leading people to a better life, so she makes sure she is heard! It is hard to be confident in life when you do not know what you stand for, who you are, or what you believe — but when you find truth, confidence follows. And when you follow wisdom, you will never go astray. Wow! That’s powerful stuff!

PREACH! It makes sense that what we like, we pursue.  We date people we like. We play sports we like. We listen to music we like. What we like, we go after. If someone likes things that are sinful, they will pursue them.  This verse tells us when we begin to hate those things that cause us to sin, we will begin to run from them and pursue God. And pursuing God leads to wisdom.

I love how it starts off by saying “if you wait at wisdom’s doorway.” Wisdom is not going to come looking for you, or knock on your door, you have to pursue it with patience and WAIT. Patience is such a beautiful thing and many times we miss the process of waiting at the doorway of wisdom because we do not know what it looks like to wait. This verse paints a beautiful picture of waiting and longing for wisdom’s words. In my growing relationship with Christian, I now long to hear his words each day. And his words bring me joy. That’s how we should be with our desire for wisdom. Pursuing wisdom by staying close to the Lord will bring us surpassing joy. Our father in heaven knows best and He knows everything about you and me! He wants to walk alongside of us and guide us. He wants us to experience joy.

The last verse is so real it almost seems too blunt, but God is a truth teller. It says “those who hate me (wisdom) are flirting with death.” This isn’t the only verse that talks about the troubles that follow foolishness. God’s desire is for us to have an abundant life. He’s the life-giver, but the foolish will bring their own troubles. Do the things of God and wisdom will be your reward.

We’re also told in this chapter that wisdom was with God when life began. If you’re seeking a meaningful life — seek wisdom. I hope you dive into these chapters even more! There is much WISDOM in it. 🙂