Proverbs: Biblical Wisdom for a Fortune Cookie WorldSample

Day 5: What’s the Purpose of All These Sayings?

Most proverbs utilize the tool of contrasting the results of opposing behaviors or choices.  For example, being wise vs. being foolish, evil vs. upright, and hard working vs. lazy, are just some of the themes which are frequently compared throughout the book of Proverbs.  As mentioned before, the array of subjects covered is so vast, that a thorough examination requires much more than we can place within this study.  Which may prompt the question, “So, what’s it all about?  What’s the purpose of all of these sayings?”

There is a clue as to what this compilation of wise sayings is trying to accomplish.  That clue lies within the opening statements of the book itself:

Proverbs 1:2-5 lays it out quite nicely.  The purpose is:

·  To teach people wisdom and discipline

·  To help them understand the insights of the wise

·  To teach people to live disciplined and successful lives

·  To help them do what is right, just and fair

·  To give insight to the simple

·  To give knowledge and discernment to the young

In other words, the overarching message of this book is:  there IS a better way to live, and that way of life follows certain precepts which are contained in these sayings.  

These precepts include embracing wisdom, listening to, and seeking understanding from those who are wise.  There’s also accepting discipline, because discipline leads to success.  Doing what is right, just, and fair by God’s standards is contained in these precepts as well.  It doesn’t matter if you are not the smartest, or if you are young, you can start gaining insight, knowledge, and discernment today if you will begin applying the precepts laid forth in this book!  Why?  Because these are Godly precepts, and Godly precepts are founded on what is true, righteous, firm, and lasting.

Coming Full Circle

Ultimately, it ALL comes back to Him—which is exactly where we started this study!  God created us, He knows us, and He also knows what is best for us.  If we will choose to love and honor Him, and follow His instructions, we will be able to have a truly successful life.  One way for us to learn His instructions is to study His word— and studying the book of Proverbs can be a great place to start!

Focus for Today

Today, commit to carefully study Proverbs over the next several days, or maybe even weeks, as you meditate and ponder on the various truths this book contains!