SIH’s Think On These Things: Proverbs 1:2-4

He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7) 

The Purpose Behind Proverbs: Prov 1:2-4 

2) To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;

3) To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;

4) To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.

 INTRODUCTION:

After identifying himself as the author of Proverbs, Solomon now continues by explaining the motivation for his writing of the book of Proverbs.

EXPOSITION:
To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;
Solomon desired to impart to the readers of Proverbs the three basic elements needed to live out the principles of God’s Word in our lives, as we seek to live for Him….

1. Instruction – warnings.  We will be instructed of God’s Word that encourages the avoidance of sin for our lives. This gives us knowledge of the truth
2. Understanding – discernment.  Once instructed, we will receive insight into purpose for our opposition to sin. This gives us a reason to follow the truth
3. Wisdom – skillful.  Our last step to application of the Word to our lives involves choosing to apply these truths to our walk of life. This is leading a lifestyle that follows the truth

These three can easily be pictured by a driver who approaches a stop sign….
He knows there is a law that says he must stop at the sign; this is instruction.
He is aware that stopping at the sign will avoid a collision with opposing traffic; this is understanding.
He puts on the brakes and stops; this is wisdom.

All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2Tim 3:16-17)
To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;

Solomon also was motivated to give teachings that address our relations with others…
1. Wisdom  – educate – to teach others through our words and life.  This is setting the proper example.
2. Justice – impartial –  to treat others without prejudice, partiality or a judgmental spirit. This is possessing a right attitude.    
3. Judgment – fair verdict – to treat others fairly, give reasonable payment, to not defraud. This is being honest.
4. Equity – agreeable – to have agreeable spirit, to avoid quarrelling, to be humble.  This is being selfless.

Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. (Matt 7:12)

 
To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.
Other benefits from the study of these proverbs are
1.  to impart to the simple (naïve) knowledge of  the subtlety (deceitful ways) of the world.  This is to avoid mistreatment at the hands of the world.
2.  to impart to the young man (child and adolescent) knowledge (truth) and discretion (to think in advance) This is the ability to recognize the future results of choices and actions.

Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.  (Titus 2:6)

SUMMARY:
In Proverbs, we are given Divine guidance that develops our relationship with God and others while producing spiritual maturity in His people.  As we continue in this series, let’s keep in mind that Proverbs not only enhances our physical life but it will enhance our relationship with the Lord Himself.  What better reason could we have to diligently receive and apply these teachings to our lives?

May the Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”.

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