Intro: When I think about starting this new year of my life, I understand everything good has already been planned in the heart of God for me; it is written. As I look forward into the future, I may not see the layers of goodness because they are yet to be revealed; however, I do know the closer I get to God the more prepared and fulfilled this year will be for me. That knowledge alone makes life exciting as I press forward to my goal for 2024: Growing in godly wisdom by aligning with the Truth.
The Book of Proverbs—Wisdom Literature—has been given to us because we need biblical knowledge with practical applications for our lives. These are sayings driven by divine wisdom and revealed through the human wisdom of elders who have learned truth from God. In Hebrew, the word “proverb” means “to be like” or “to rule.” Biblical proverbs, like parables, relay a general truth for godly wisdom in simple terms. Scripture is filled with proverbs and parables. So, we might say that wisdom is the application of the Word of God for our lives; we live the Truth (to be like Christ and to be ruled by him).
Christ is our Source for genuine Wisdom and we grow in it by revelation. When we choose God’s way, he grants us Wisdom because he is leading us closer to himself. The value of Wisdom is indescribable; nothing can compare to it. All of our relationships are affected by Wisdom and it involves great discipline and self-control [fruit] which reminds us victory comes through the work of the Spirit. Wisdom brings contentment, joy, and peace which is where we all want to live; abiding in the glorious nature of God. Let’s devote ourselves to Wisdom! Happy New Year!
Proverbs 1:1-7 The Purpose of Proverbs
1 These are the proverbs of Solomon, David’s son, king of Israel.
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Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline,
to help them understand the insights of the wise.
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Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives,
to help them do what is right, just, and fair.
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These proverbs will give insight to the simple,
knowledge and discernment to the young.
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Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser.
Let those with understanding receive guidance
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by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables,
the words of the wise and their riddles.
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Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
Prayer: Lord, we devote ourselves this year to gaining genuine and godly wisdom. We need your guidance, revelation, and knowledge to better understand your Kingdom on earth and how we can serve you. Holy Spirit, help us to live a disciplined life for your honor and glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.