The Value of Wisdom
The Advice of a Father
Solomon, the wisest man to ever exist (other than Jesus), shows the importance of listening. He trains us as a father would train his son.
For those who have not had good fathers, think of the privilege of sitting down and having a long chat with the wisest person who has ever lived. What a privilege to sit at his feet and drink in knowledge that will help you know how to live.
The promises of the practical impact of a father's advice stand out to me.
Prov 4:1‑10
1 Listen, my sons, to a father's instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.
2 I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching.
3 When I was a boy in my father's house, still tender, and an only child of my mother,
4 he taught me and said, "Lay hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands and you will live.
5 Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or swerve from them.
6 Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.
7 Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
8 Esteem her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you.
9 She will set a garland of grace on your head and present you with a crown of splendor."
10 Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many.
What are some of the active words used to describe seeking for wisdom? (underline)
What promises does Solomon give to his son? (circle)
Solomon quoted his father. What do you know of David's life in relation to wisdom?
What insight does this provide into the relationship between David and Solomon?
How does this relate to a college student living at home in 1999?
Two Possible Paths
We are free to choose to live a wise life or a foolish wicked life.
11 I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.
12 When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble.
13 Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.
14 Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men.
15 Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way.
16 For they cannot sleep till they do evil; they are robbed of slumber till they make someone fall. (See Romans 1:32)
17 They eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of violence.
18 The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.
19 But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble. (NIV) (Proverbs 4)
What are some comparisons between the wise path and that of the wicked?
(put a star before explanations of wisdom, and a single line through statements about the wicked approach to life)
Which road best describes the path of our culture?
What makes foolishness so appealing?
What are some other active words related to wisdom? (underline)
Guard Your Heart
Our heart, or soul, is the whole of who we are. From our heart comes all the decisions of our lives. If we guard what we put in our heart, we will have a more successful life.
20 My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words.
21 Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart;
22 for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body.
23 Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
24 Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
25 Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you.
26 Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm.
27 Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.
(NIV) (Proverbs 4)
What does it mean to guard your heart?
What are some more of the active verbs here?
What can you do to guard your heart this week?
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