Proverbs

Throughout the Book of Proverbs, (godly) wisdom is contrasted with (worldly) foolishness (Prov 1:7, cf. 9:10, etc.). Proverbs 10:19-21 offers godly wisdom concerning word economy. In a nutshell, when it comes to words: “the fewer the better.” Like a rare treasure, the words of the wise are often few but valuable.

Today, C4C is studying Proverbs 9:1-18 — a juxtaposition of rival feasts hosted by Woman Wisdom and Women Folly. While the fools, scoffers, and mockers accept the invitation to the feast that leads to death, the wise accept the invitation of the feast that leads to life and understanding. The theology of the ‘Two Ways’ continues in the New Testament, leaving us all with Christ’s invitation to the Great Banquet — and a choice to make.

Our actions are influenced by our ideology. And, if our ideology is not grounded in good theology, we may consistently engage in — and even enjoy! — things that are not of God (i.e., wickedness). For, despite our moral inclinations, God is the ultimate standard of morality (Prov 16:2, 21:2).

Let us delight not only in wisdom, but in the One from whom wisdom begins (Prov 1:7, 9:10, etc.). 

Part of the portrait of a “wife of noble character” features faithful, loving, and wise instruction. Such instruction (tôrâ) is grounded in the wisdom found in the previous 30 chapters — and in the law (tôrâ) of the LORD.

Who should we rely on for our battles? Our own horses? How might we apply this Proverb of Solomon to our lives today?