What is the purpose of the book of Proverbs? Why do we often go to social media, books, etc… instead of looking to Scripture for wisdom?
Verse 3 says that prudent behavior involves “doing what is right and just and fair.” Why has the church historically separated the idea of God’s righteousness from justice? How do they fit together?
Verse 5 tells the wise to “listen” and “add to their learning,” to receive “guidance” in the way of the LORD. What keeps us from seeking out (or receiving) correction and guidance from our church community?
Pastor Jeff said this past Sunday, “There is no wisdom without defeat…No wisdom without humility.” What did he mean by this, and how have you seen it to be true in your own life?
What is the fear of the LORD (vs. 7) and how is it connected to wisdom? What practices enable you to grow in your “fear of the LORD?”
Amy Plantinga Pauw (Old Testament Biblical Scholar) says, “The focus of faith’s expression for Proverbs is not the worshipping assembly but the ordinary settings of home, field, and marketplace.” (Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, pg. 20). It is in this Monday-Friday world where we must work out our faith. In light of that, what does it look like to do “what is right, just, and fair” (vs. 3) and to “listen…get guidance” (vs. 5) this week in your everyday life?
Jeff Mattesich