If you have ever climbed a mountain, you know that not all paths are created equal. Some will take you to the top safely while others are slick and dangerous. In Proverbs 2, Solomon uses the image of a path as a metaphor for our journey in life.
The source of wisdom
Read Proverbs 2:6
• Where does wisdom come from?
• Why do you think Solomon keeps repeating this point (see Proverbs 1:7Proverbs 1:7)?
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TIME OUT… Read 1 Corinthians 2:6.
• What two types of “wisdom” are there, and how are they described (v 6-7)?
• How do we know that the world doesn’t understand God’s wisdom (v 8)?
• God’s wisdom is “secret” and “hidden” (v 7). How can anyone understand it (v 10)?
• When was the last time you asked God to give you wisdom?
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Solomon explains that knowledge and understanding come from God’s mouth.
• What is this telling us about the root source of all wisdom today?
Of course, godly advice can still come through someone else’s words! If someone is giving you counsel that is in accordance with what God says, it is wise and you would do well to heed it.
A tale of two paths
Read Proverbs 2:7
• What is in store for God's people (v 7)?
• What does wisdom enable God's people to do until then (v 9)?
One of the ways that God spiritually protects His people is by making them wise.
• What’s the alternative (v 12-15)?
• Where does that lead (Proverbs 1:32)?
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APPLY
• Who are your counsellors (don’t just think about your friends and family; think about celebrities, magazines, books and advertisers, etc)?
• Do you get wise instruction from these people?
• Why do you think you might be tempted to listen to them even if their advice isn’t wise?
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PRAY
Pray about any situations where you feel tempted to delight in evil.
Ask God to give you the wisdom you need to recognise and delight in what is good.
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This devotional is taken from Explore—a daily Bible-reading devotional from the good book company which enables you to engage with Scripture and which will encourage, equip and inspire you to live for Christ. Explore features contributions from pastors such as Dr Timothy Keller, Mike McKinley and Tim Chester.
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