Proverbs 10:1—“The proverbs of Solomon”
It may seem nit-picky to start with this little phrase, but God wanted it there (2 Pet 1:21). Every word is “God-breathed,” essential for godly living (2 Tim 3:16-17). So, before diving into the hundreds of proverbs, let’s review and remember some essential things about the book from this opening statement.
First, these are proverbs: compact statements giving biblical wisdom. Wisdom is taught through these: the correct, skillful application of the fear of the Lord to daily life. The fear of the Lord is reverent belief in the God of the Bible, exclusively loving, obeying, and worshiping the One you will give an account to. As you read these proverbs, don’t forget that they are “compact statements.” They don’t tell everything about a subject, what could or couldn’t happen, nor are they iron-clad guarantees. They describe what normally is the case, so be wise and do as instructed!
As “the proverbs of Solomon” read them from his perspective. These aren’t your grandma’s memorable cute or quaint little sayings; they’re based on and teach the wisdom of the Mosaic Law, God’s revealed truth given to God’s covenant people Israel. The Law addressed all of life in that nation God ruled through a human mediator, in this case, King Solomon. When Israel obeyed God’s Law, they would experience his blessing in every area of life; as they disobeyed, God’s curse would likewise be experienced (see Deut 28).
- Do you view the Bible as God’s Word? How should that affect your attitude, approach, and response to it?
- What is the end purpose of God’s Word (2 Tim 3:16-17)? Is that your goal? What are you doing toward that end?
- Work hard at understanding Scripture correctly. The more you read and study, the better you’ll understand and more correctly apply it. Right application always follows right interpretation.
