What is a Proverb? My first thought was, that a proverb reveals a truth about our character and the consequences of choice. Modern-day Western proverbs are "self" oriented sayings, like "pay yourself first", "(you) see something, say something", "(you) wake up and smell the coffee", or "you break it, you buy it". Notable Eastern proverbs are "There are no coincidences", "When the pupil is ready, the teacher will come", "Always the teacher, always the student", and "A thousand mile journey can be made one step at a time." Eastern proverbs sound good when ended with the word, "Grasshopper!" (see Kung Fu "Never assume that because a man has no eyes, he cannot see"). The Proverbs of the Bible teach even simple people wisdom and discipline so they understand insights of the wise leading to living disciplined and successful lives (Proverbs 1:2-4). When we explore the meaning of proverbs and parables we become wiser (Proverbs 1:5-6).
The theme of Proverbs is found in Proverbs 4:7:
I like the BRG and AMP translations of this verse:
The theme of Proverbs is found in Proverbs 4:7:
I like the BRG and AMP translations of this verse:
“The beginning of wisdom is: Get [skillful and godly] wisdom [it is preeminent]!
And with all your acquiring, get understanding [actively seek spiritual discernment, mature comprehension, and logical interpretation].
Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
I see Proverbs as being Intensely Practical in the following ways:
- They provide warnings we can spot in our own attitude and behavior
- They usually follow with corrective prescriptions of right attitudes and behaviors
- They provide timely counsel relating to seasons and storms of life
- Godly wisdom, directs us into what is pleasing to God and there is nothing better in life than being someone whom God is pleased.
How do we obtain wisdom today? James 1:5-8;3:13-18 tells us
- Ask God who gives wisdom generously to those who ask
- Ask God in faith, without doubting God's willingness to help
- Those who doubt God won't receive anything from the Lord
- Wisdom from God is shown in humble, good conduct. Not bitter, envious, striving for what is in defiance of the truth
- Jealousy, selfish ambition are signals for every evil thing and morally degrading practice
- But the wisdom from above is pure, peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of compassion and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.
- The seed (righteousness, spiritual maturity) sown in peace by people who actively encourage goodwill between individuals
Thanks to Rob Harbison for sharing this excellent study on Proverbs
http://www.padfield.com/acrobat/harbison/proverbs-rh.pdf