BibleProject | One Story That Leads to JesusSample

At the beginning, God gave humans a choice, represented by two trees. Will they eat from the tree of life and, therefore, live by Yahweh’s wisdom in a rich garden land? Or will they eat from the tree of knowing good and bad and, therefore, live by their own wisdom and follow the path that leads to exile and death?

Humanity makes a poor choice and forfeits the blessing of Eden for a life marked by drought and weeds, swords and chains, sweat and tears, crutches and graveyards.

But what if there was a way back to a life of abundance, flourishing, and peace? What if there was a way to experience the blessings of Eden again, even in the harsh world outside the garden? What if the tree of life wasn’t locked away behind the cherubim’s flaming swords but was walking the streets, calling your name?

Meet Lady Wisdom, “a tree of life to all who take hold of her.” She holds riches, honor, and blessings in her arms, and she offers them free of charge to anyone who heeds her call. Take her hand, and she’ll lead you down the path of life.

Watch the video to learn about Lady Wisdom’s invitation to live by the fear of Yahweh in the book of Proverbs.

Reflection Questions

• What hyperlinks to Genesis 1-3 do you notice in today’s reading? How do these connections help you understand humanity’s choice to live by God’s wisdom or our own?
• Take a moment to review the story of Solomon in 1 Kings 3. What does this passage reveal about Solomon’s wisdom? What common features of wisdom do you notice in Solomon’s story and today’s reading?