Proverbs 9

Bible Passage:  Proverbs 9

Try to study this chapter in two parts, that is, (a) v1-12 which describes the ways of Wisdom and v13-18 the Folly’s. It is in fact quite fascinating to imagine how both the Wisdom and Folly are ‘personified’ in a contrasting but sometimes similar manner.

Both Wisdom and Folly ‘call out to those who pass by’ and invite them to their respective houses. They both cry out in the same manner ‘Whoever is simple, let him turn in here’ (v4, 16). My thought is – how could the passersby, who are ‘simple and lacking in understanding’ have known the right way to turn to.

I would like to take v10-11 as the guiding compass –

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”

We read of similar verses in the opening chapter of Proverbs. This indeed is the direction for those who thirst and seek for true and godly wisdom – that is to fear God!

Fearing the Lord is such an important and fundamental belief of a true Christian. Such belief is manifested in our mentality, thoughts, attitude and our way of life. To put it simply – someone who fears the Lord is determined not to transgress and sin against God. Joseph for instance is someone who fears God. His fear of God was so absolute (with no excuses) that he traded his life for his belief –

“How can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” (Gen 39:9)

Someone who fears God must understand who God truly is. A God-fearing person knows of and recognizes God’s Authority, Almightiness; divine nature.

Knowing that God is just and righteous – a God-fearing person keeps His commandments. Knowing that God is a consuming fire, a God-fearing person serves with godly reverence (Heb 12: 28-29). Knowing of His loving-kindness and faithfulness, a God-fearing person could enter the Holiest and draw near to Him with a clear conscience (Heb 10: 19-22).

Going back to the Wisdom and Folly’s invites – I would like to share another verse of wisdom in Prov 14:27 “The fear of the Lord is fountain of life, to turn one away from the snares of death”. A God-fearing heart guides us to the house of Wisdom and gives us true wisdom.

May the spirit of God guide us to the house of Wisdom in all that we do.