A wise man will hear and increase learning, And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel, Proverbs 1:5 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/pro.1.5.NKJV
God has given us such depth of instruction throughout scripture.
Proverbs packages that in a unique way.
Since the book of Proverbs is Hebrew poetry it has three main ways of emphasis: parallel, opposite, and building.
The author will state something and then restate the same truth with a different example and this is parallel.
Such is verse 1:5.
The author also will state a truth and then state the opposite.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, But fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Proverbs 1:7 NKJV
The third is a building, where the author states a truth and then gives details.
My son, hear the instruction of your father, And do not forsake the law of your mother; For they will be a graceful ornament on your head, And chains about your neck.
Proverbs 1:8-9 NKJV
Understanding the types of poetry can help us as we study, for when we see the pattern we are able to understand the emphasis.
In just these few verses of Proverbs 1 we see the point clearly.
Wisdom is from fearing the Lord and the wise choose to treasure it for it is valuable.
“Because they hated knowledge And did not choose the fear of the Lord , They would have none of my counsel And despised my every rebuke. Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way, And be filled to the full with their own fancies. For the turning away of the simple will slay them, And the complacency of fools will destroy them; But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, And will be secure, without fear of evil.”
Proverbs 1:29-33 NKJV
No one wants to dwell in fear of evil.
Even children desire to live in safety.
But it is only found when we revere the Lord and walk in His wisdom.
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for so clearly instructing us through it. Lord Jesus, thank You that we need not be afraid, but can put our trust in You. We can find security and safety in You. Lord, if our soul is safe with You then we can find peace no matter the circumstance. Lord, please, I want to walk in Your wisdom today. Please help me to understand Your direction and to obey Your voice. Lord, let Your Word be my guide in all things and help me to humble my heart before You continually. Thank You for another day. Thank You for the comfort of Your Word. Amen.
patientlyhopeful 