Intro: If we have a proper fear of the Lord, we will have a focused attentiveness toward God’s authority and power. As well, we will hate what is evil, because Satan uses it to rob people from a vibrant relationship with God. Believers know we can do nothing without Him; therefore, humility is our proper response to life with God, because victory is found in Him alone. We need to rely on God’s wisdom and trust Him wholeheartedly. The proper application of God’s wisdom will affect our relationships, work, speech, and bring us success for living.
In our passage today, Solomon shares a series of short proverbs—a concise sentence that conveys moral truth. The word “proverb” comes from a Hebrew word which means “to rule or to govern.” God wants us to focus on wise thoughts, because how we think will influence and govern our actions. When God is first in our lives, other things usually find their proper place, as well. One thing God seems to be intolerant about in His children is an attitude of arrogance—when we exalt the value of our own thoughts leading us to become competitive, critical, and self-centered. God’s love does not behave pridefully nor arrogantly. Since God will be the One evaluating our earthly lives and how we have live them, we need to spend some time thinking about our attitudes because they are revealed in how we treat others.
Proverbs 8:12-21 NLT
12
“I, Wisdom, live together with good judgment.
I know where to discover knowledge and discernment.
13
All who fear the Lord will hate evil.
Therefore, I hate pride and arrogance,
corruption and perverse speech.
14
Common sense and success belong to me.
Insight and strength are mine.
15
Because of me, kings reign,
and rulers make just decrees.
16
Rulers lead with my help,
and nobles make righteous judgments.
17
“I love all who love me.
Those who search will surely find me.
18
I have riches and honor,
as well as enduring wealth and justice.
19
My gifts are better than gold, even the purest gold,
my wages better than sterling silver!
20
I walk in righteousness,
in paths of justice.
21
Those who love me inherit wealth.
I will fill their treasuries.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for these wise sayings inspired by your Spirit and penned by Solomon. Challenge us to look honestly at our attitudes about our relationships, work, and speech in Jesus’ name. Amen.