Proverbs

AUTHOR:

Solomon

AUDIENCE:

The people of Israel

PURPOSE:

To teach people to apply divine wisdom to daily life.

A proverb is a general statement of truth. Solomon packed the book of Proverbs with simple yet profound declarations that offer wise counsel for facing life’s many challenges. This collection is the most practical of the “wisdom books” (Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs) and focuses on individual experiences. According to Solomon, life generally operates on a fairly predictable set of rules that were established by God, and each has its own reward and punishment. Even mundane activities and behaviors have consequences. Proverbs challenges readers to consider the outcome of their choices, whether they are wicked and foolish or godly and humble. Obedience to God’s laws reveals a person’s common sense and results in a life that is skillfully lived. This doesn’t deny, however, that in this life the wicked often prosper while the righteous cope with long-suffering. Still, many afflictions can be avoided through wise living—and when we do suffer, wisdom can help us understand and endure it.

SUFFERING AND DISABILITY THEMES

  floral bullet  Wisdom helps us minimize suffering. God often allows difficulties and suffering to come as a result of our poor decisions. The more foolish people are, the more likely they are to suffer due to unwise living. In this book, the “doctor” writes a prescription for a dose of daily wisdom to deal with earthly discomfort and pain.

  floral bullet  Wisdom comes from loving and obeying God. While knowledge and education may increase, Solomon is clear about one thing: “Fear of the LORD is the foundation of wisdom” (9:10; see also 15:33; 16:6; 31:30). Wisdom is rooted in God’s law; it is also a gift and a revelation that comes through his Word—“When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is joyful” (29:18).

  floral bullet  The righteous suffer, but the wicked (usually) suffer more. The general principle expressed in Proverbs is “obey God and prosper; disobey God and suffer.” But Proverbs also recognizes righteous suffering (13:23; 16:19; 17:26). Moreover, sinners will try to entice the righteous to join them in their sin (1:10). Godly wisdom enables us to resist such temptations.