For “some reason” my Bible was opened this morning at the beginning of Solomon’s Book of Proverbs. As I glanced at some introductory notes I’d written in the margins of the first few pages, it seemed the Lord was prompting me to share some insights concerning this most wonderful, insightful, encouraging book! If you’ve been wondering where to read next in your Bible, perhaps Proverbs will be your next stop!
Weaving its way throughout Proverbs is the theme of “Wisdom for Living” — perhaps best summarized in 1:7 (Solomon’s very first instruction!): “The fear [reverence] of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge…” Of course 3:5-6 are also great summary verses: “Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.”
Proverbs comes under the Biblical category of wisdom literature and emphasizes practical living before the face of God. The book is filled with distinctive maxims and adages — general principles that are usually (but not always) fulfilled this side of heaven. For instance: The righteous suffer while the wicked seem to prosper and enjoy great blessing. But, ultimately, rewards and punishment will be fulfilled in the new heaven and earth.
Very importantly: The verses in Proverbs are not unqualified promises — unless they overlap with promises found elsewhere in Scripture! Broadly speaking, Proverbs are principles to live by, not unqualified promises to count on (e.g. 22:6). As Dr. Charles Caldwell Ryrie has noted in his study Bible (The Ryrie Study Bible): “Proverbs are sayings taken from everyday life intended to serve as practical guidelines for successful living… The purpose of Proverbs is that the reader might know wisdom and allow it to govern his or her life.”
I recall Billy Graham saying he read a chapter a day out of Proverbs. When he finished, he’d simply start over. I’d say his life turned out pretty well, wouldn’t you? Of course, most of us are not called to public ministry, much less one of Billy’s scope — but we all are called (blessed with the privilege!) to walk with God each day of our life. He has given us some great help on how to do that in the book of Proverbs!