Proverbs in 31 DaysSample

Proverbs 14 is separated into three main sections that tackle one topic each:

Results of foolishness versus the results of wisdom

Fates of the wicked and the righteous

Miscellaneous topics of importance

We see in the first section of verses that wisdom produces preservation, strength, knowledge, and understanding, and ultimately, eternal flourishing. When we read the pros and cons of wisdom and foolishness, it is easy to say, “Well then, I will just be wise!” However, it is not that easy. We see in verse 12 that, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” The reality is that what seems right to our sinful and wretched minds leads us to sin. We know from Romans 6:23 that “the wages of sin is death.” Therefore, we can follow that following worldly foolishness (even if the world deems it to be wise) will surely lead to complete and utter destruction.

If that is the case, then how can we experience eternal flourishing? There is only one way: God’s Wisdom. We see a common theme of patience expressed in this chapter for those who are wise. Verses 15 and 16 say that fools “believe everything” and are “reckless and careless.” The wise “give thought to their steps” and are “cautious and turn away from evil.” This shows us something that can completely change our lives.

The world says “trust your instinct” and “follow your heart.” If we did this, we would be led on a straight path to death. Don’t believe the words of the world. Believe the words of the Creator of the world. Don’t follow your sinful heart; follow His pure heart. God’s wisdom may not make sense to us, or especially to the world. However, it will lead to a life that produces real fruit.

Verses 26 through 29 show us how to receive this wisdom from God. It starts by possessing a righteous fear of the Lord. We cannot fear the Lord if we don’t know the Lord and if we don’t also know the characteristics of the Lord. The Lord is loving and forgiving. He is also a righteous judge who has wiped out entire nations for sin. He is both loving and righteous. This should bring us to a rightful place of thankfulness, fear, and reverence for our great and holy God.

The final verses remind us that we do not have to do this alone. Verse 28 says, “In a multitude of people is the glory of a king.” If we want to truly experience the wisdom of the Lord, not trust our sinful minds, and not fall into the temptations of the world, we must be surrounded by those who know Jesus and are pointing us to Him. This can look like a Life Group, a local church body, a friend group of fellow believers, and much more.