Journal ~ ProverbsSample

WISDOM FOR LIVING

Fear and being afraid can be confused. The fear of God is not a matter of wanting to stay away from a God who is fearful, or of being afraid of what he might do to us. It is a matter of understanding his claim on us, that he wants us to belong to him in a relationship where we respect and obey him, and he lovingly provides for us everything that we need. We hear a lot about covenants, and in this case, we are told that we cannot become wise unless we acknowledge the terms of his covenant. He is our God, and we respect and worship him. In return he will care for us and provide for us, both in this world and through eternity. 

This relationship provides the only framework that allows us to become truly wise, and keeping our relationship with him in the center of our perspective. It is not just a matter of doing, but also of being. To put it another way, it is about doing the right things for the right reasons. 

The interesting thing is that we find this reference to the fear of God in both the beginning (1:7) but also in the end of Proverbs. 

Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. Proverbs 31:30 (NLT)

As you read this book, are you willing to submit yourself to God's claim on your life? Are you willing to be in a covenant relationship with him, where you fear (respect, follow and worship) so that you can gain true wisdom?