Have you ever known a wise person, someone who seemingly makes all the right choices? Even in difficult circumstances they are the voice of reason. We have been given instruction on how to be that kind of person. The book of Proverbs is full of timeless wisdom to help us in our daily lives.
Much of the book is written in the format of a father sharing wisdom with his children. “Hear, my son, your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching; indeed, they are a graceful wreath to your head and ornaments about your neck” (Prov. 1:8-9). In this first section of the book, wisdom is personified as one crying out to the simple. Wisdom pleads to be heard. Yet, when it is not heeded and the hearer comes to harm, there is no sympathy. Wisdom takes the stance of “it’s too late” and “don’t come crying to me” (Prov. 1:20-33).
The book also contains verses that share with us those things that are better—better choices and better situations (Prov. 3:14; 8:11, 19; 12:9; 15:16, 17; 16:8,16, 19, 32; 17:1; 19:1, 22; 21:9, 18; 22:1; 25:7, 24; 27:5, 10; 28:6). For example, “Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and turmoil with it” (Prov. 15:16). Often we find ourselves thinking, “it would be better if…” In these passages we truly get to see what would be better and makes choices in our lives that lead to those better outcomes.
The book of Proverbs also gives us information about things that hinder us in our quest for wisdom. While there are several, here are three that are often mentioned. The first is the sluggard (Prov. 6:6-9; 13:4; 19:24; 20:4; 21:25; 22:13; 24:30; 26:13-16). Being a sluggard or lazy is counterproductive to wisdom. Knowledge and its use come with work and experience. The second item that counters wisdom can be your own tongue (Prov. 12:19; 15:2,4; 17:4; 18:21; 21:6, 23; 25:23; 26:28). Whether it is lying, speaking perversions, or just opening your mouth at the wrong time, the tongue can get us into a lot of trouble. Word to the wise—if you’re not sure, don’t speak. The last in the trio of hinderances is playing the fool (Prov. 10:23; 12:15, 16; 13:16; 14:16; 15:5; 17:10, 21, 28; 18:2, 6, 7; 26:11; 29:11). Over and over the fool is berated in Proverbs for his folly. The fool is the counter to the reason why the book was written. A father does not want this child to be a fool and even speaks to the hurt that a foolish son brings upon his parents. It is no wonder that so much is said warning the reader to stay out of the path of the fool.
I would challenge you to read through the Proverbs of Solomon again. Bind the wisdom found there upon your heart. There by you will be a blessing to all who know you.