Unlocking Biblical Wisdom
The book of Proverbs is a beloved and well-known collection of sentimental sayings that hold a wealth of wisdom and is jam packed with truths on how we can honor God with our lives. If you want to live with joy in your heart, there is an answer for that in Proverbs. If you long to discern God’s voice over the lies of this world, Proverbs has an answer for that, too. Want to be a good spouse, parent, or friend? Yep! You guessed it: turn to the book of Proverbs as it is very insightful when it comes to our relationships with others.
Friend, I am so glad you are here because over the next few weeks, we will be unlocking some of the beautiful Biblical truths and wisdom that are spelled out for us in the book of Proverbs. Trust me, there is so much more to this book of the Bible than meets the eye, and I know this study is bound to grow your faith and enrich your life! So, are you ready?
Well, before we get started, let’s get to the origins of this book and seek to understand who wrote it, why it was so important to past generations, and how these clever statements can apply to our lives today. Understanding a bit of the background history and context will help us not only receive God’s Word at face value, but it will also create a sweet space for us to be real and honest with God as He speaks to us through His Word.
So, grab your Bible (if you haven’t already), a pen and maybe a journal, a snack (because you might be here a while), and a heart willing and ready to dig into the Word with eagerness and anticipation. God is waiting for you and is ready to meet you on the pages of Proverbs!
Who Wrote It?
To begin, let’s set the stage by understanding the authorship of Proverbs. While Solomon, David’s son and Isreal’s wisest king (1 Kings 4:24-33), was accredited to have written the majority of Proverbs, there is speculation that other authors may have also added to these words. However, some Biblical scholars would argue that those were merely pen names used by the king’s scribes. Basically, the verdict is still out on this one.
That said, there are two other names mentioned in the entirety of Proverbs. Agur, the son of Jakeh, who is said to have written Proverbs 30, and Lemuel (which some associate with Solomon), who is noted for writing the infamous Proverbs 31 verses. So, while Solomon may be cited as the main contributor, we can gather that there was a possibility that there were a few other authors, maybe even unknown (or secretive) authors, that contributed as well.
This is important to understand because King Solomon plays a valuable role here! First of all, he showed His love for the Lord and followed his father’s footsteps as a young man, even asking God for wisdom to lead his people (King 3:5-14). This greatly pleased the Lord. Sure, Solomon led his people well, (for a time), and he was able to discern “right” from “wrong,” but confliction, confusion, and temptation stole his heart. Over time, sinful and lustful patterns consumed his life, and Solomon became more concerned about pleasing his many wives who worshiped false gods, rather than to live a life that honored and pleased the one true God.
Sadly, Solomon gives us a very valuable lesson that we must remember as we are reading. While wisdom is surely something we gain by reading the Bible, it’s the act of carrying out that wisdom that ultimately pleases God. Basically, wisdom is indeed null and void without action!
What Is the Purpose of Proverbs?
The book was originally written in Hebrew for a Jewish audience during the time Solomon was king (970—931 BC) to the rule of King Hezekiah (726—697 BC). While the basic purpose for the book of Proverbs is to share wisdom so that we can apply it to our lives, the way in which it is laid out is so purposefully beautiful. From all the vivid imagery and poetic nature to the obvious repetitiveness, its simple yet artistic style is what truly makes this book so special and unique.
Rather than being a personal narrative and read as one continuous passage, Proverbs offers small and bite-sized nuggets of truth so that it is not only easy to understand but can be readily applied to our lives. As we read them separately, verse by verse, and chapter by chapter, we see that they each stand alone, providing insight on how to live a life that honors God.
Structure of Study
This study is designed to appeal to both personal or small group use, taking place over four consecutive weeks, making it ideal for a mini Bible Study series that fits perfectly into one month’s time. Each week will begin with prayer or a personalized prayer prompt, giving way for you to be real and honest as you come before our gracious God and open His Word. Then seven chapters will be covered in a week (one a day) and broken into four sections, allowing you (or your study group) to open up your heart and receive God’s truth while using that wisdom to reflect on your own life.
Read, Respond, Reflect, and React
Read
As we unpack seven chapters each week (one a day), you will read the chapter first silently, then out loud. This can be done individually or as a group, but there is power in reading these verses aloud and declaring them over your life.
Respond
This will be the initial response to the passage as you take notice of what stood out to you. Is there a verse you want to memorize or a keyword that brings great significance to your current life or situation? If you feel comfortable, share that with your group, or if you are doing this study individually, highlight keywords, take notes in your journal, or simply write down what first comes to your mind as you are reading.
Reflect
Questions will then follow as you personally and thoughtfully reflect on your own life. You do not need to share your answers as this is an open dialogue between you and your Heavenly Father. Allow this to be a place where you can connect deeply with God, seek His guidance and discernment, and come clean before Him, asking for His mercy and grace.
React
This is where you can put the wisdom into practice. We do not want to skip this valuable step! Each week, there will be a few “Suggested Scripture Memory Verses” as well as a place for you to ponder on how these verses can impact your life and allow you to walk in truth and grace.
A Prayer for Wisdom
Father,
As we immerse ourselves in Your Word over the next few weeks, please reveal to us Your Truth in the profound book of Proverbs. Cover us in Your divine wisdom and help us reflect upon Your words and respond to it with eager and wiling hearts. Shed light on the areas in our lives in which we need to repent and grow in our faith. Provide ways for us to not only saturate ourselves in Your wisdom but also seek to earnestly live it out. We ask this in Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Part One is Coming Soon! Stay Tuned!
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