Proverbs 8

Read Proverbs 8:1 – 11. In this chapter, Wisdom is personified as a woman calling out in public places, not unlike the adulterous woman in Chapter 7. Unlike the other woman, Wisdom detests wickedness (v. 7). She calls out to all, but especially seeks the simple and the foolish, those least likely to respond. Her words are just and the discerning man or woman will recognize them as right. How certain are you that you can discern godly wisdom? Do you ever reject the church’s wisdom because it comes from the church? When you have questions about a source of wisdom, how do you confirm its credibility?

Read Proverbs 8:12 – 21. Wisdom promises “riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity.” Her fruit is better than gold or silver and she bestows “wealth” on those who love her (v. 18 – 21). What connection, if any, exists between our pursuit of godly wisdom and the acquisition of material wealth, good health and rewarding relationships? If there is a connection, what does it say about those who aren’t experiencing those blessings? If there is not a connection, what is meant by the rewards Wisdom offers? Can you back up your conclusions with Scripture outside of Proverbs?

Read Proverbs 8:22 – 31. Wisdom was present as the first of the Lord’s works. She was present throughout the process of creation. She was a “craftsman at his side” (v. 30). This doesn’t mean that Wisdom is a separate, spiritual being, who predates other created beings and gives away secret knowledge apart from God. Instead, the best way of understanding this passage is to see her as God’s gift of skill and insight, which can be acquired and passed on from generation to generation by those who are discerning and willing to listen to and learn from God, the source. Our culture disregards biblical wisdom as archaic or inapplicable to modern life. Does the idea that Wisdom originates before creation increase its credibility for your present-day circumstances? Why?

Read Proverbs 8:32 – 36. Wisdom promises that those who listen to her instruction will be blessed. She reminds her audience that listening to her must be a daily exercise, one conducted with anticipation (v. 34). She also warns that failure to find her results in harm to oneself (v. 36). Essentially, Wisdom claims two ways exist. (1) Follow her and be blessed. (2) Ignore her and suffer harm. Do you believe these two paths are the only ones that exist? If not, what alternatives are available? Can you support them biblically?

Take a moment to reflect on your own search for wisdom. What kind of wisdom do you most often desire, relational, workplace, financial, medical, or spiritual wisdom? Do you usually search Scripture for that wisdom or do you assume it is best found elsewhere? Why do you search where you do? Ask God to show you the wisdom you need today.