The theme of the book of Proverbs [Proverbs 9:10-12]
The first major section of Proverbs (Chapters 1-9) are bookended by a statement of the theme of Proverbs. Today we’re talking about the fear of the Lord. Today’s Big Question: How do you want to respond to correction? Today’s Scripture: Proverbs 9:10-12 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For by me your days will be many, and years will be added to your life. If you are wise, you are wise for your own benefit; if you mock, you alone will bear the consequences.” Other verses referenced in this episode: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Proverbs 1:7) This is what the LORD says: "Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boast of his riches, but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight," declares the LORD. (Jeremiah 9:23-24) “The fear of God includes, but is not limited to, respecting and reverencing him, for we are told to tremble at his presence. Holy fear gives God the place of glory, honor, reverence, thanksgiving, praise, and preeminence he deserves….God holds this preeminent position in our hearts and lives as we esteem his desires over and above our own, hating what he hates and loving what he loves, trembling in his presence and at his Word. Hear this and meditate on it: You will serve whom you fear. If you fear God, you will serve him. If you fear man, you will serve man. You must choose. Now you can understand why Soloman, after an entire life of both success and hardship, could say: When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: fear God and keep his commands, because this is for all humanity. (Ecclesiastes 12:13)” - John Bevere “The great choice of life, which Solomon repeated often, is the choice of wisdom. If you choose her, you will be blessed; if you reject her, you will be punished. There is no escape; your choice will be repaid. You will bear the consequences. Your wisdom cannot benefit God, nor does your folly hurt him (Job 35:5-8). You alone will bear the results. The Preacher of the New Testament, Paul warned, “Every man shall bear his own burden” (Gal 6:5). Do not be deceived; God is not mocked; whatever you sow, that is what you will reap (Gal 6:7-8).” - Anon. If you want a place to see and answer the questions I ask in the episode and to keep track of the discoveries you make as we study Proverbs, we include a set of free journal pages for this devotional series in each of our Sunday emails Free journal pages to follow the study: www.getwisdom.link/email www.getwisdompublishing.com www.graceandthegravelroad.com