Proverbs Study – Lesson 7 –October 24, 2010 – Seacoast Community Church

Proverbs Study – Lesson 7

Read Prov. 8:1-11

Solomon begins chapter 8 by reminding us that wisdom is right where we live. As seen in chapter 1, Solomon tells us that wisdom is found in the common places, right where we live and travel. We can see it if we are looking for it. James again tells us in James chapter 1 that God will show us the answers to life if we ask. Sometimes we may have to work or seek the answers out for them to be made known to us, but Solomon and James would tell us that they are there.

He begins the chapter telling us that Wisdom is not hidden at all. It is actually crying out to make itself know to us. V. 1-4 tells us that it stands in prominent places crying out just waiting to be used. V. 4 tells us that this voice of wisdom is directed to men or the sons of men. This wisdom was created especially for man to use and apply. It was not given to other parts of God’s creation. This gives the thought that man is given the position of prominence using wisdom as a tool to do great things. Wisdom would say to do great things for God.  Along with this special prominence would also come the responsibility that went with the position.

In v. 6 he tells us that wisdom is asking us to hear for our benefit. He is offering us excellent things that will cost us nothing but time and some effort to apply. He tells us in v. 6-8 that the mouth of wisdom will never steer us wrong. It will not tell us to do the wrong thing. As a matter of fact, it says that true wisdom cannot even speak the wrong thing. It says that it is an abomination for wisdom to speak of wicked devises. A good thing to remember, if treachery or deception is involved in a plan that wisdom is not part of that plan and you should think twice about applying it. V. 8

V. 9 tells us that those who are looking for wisdom will have no problem understanding it. It will make sense to them.

V. 10-1 tells us to make the sacrifice. If you had a choice between winning the lottery and getting wisdom for life which would you choose? If you were offered silver or precious stones or wisdom which would you choose? Solomon would have no problem making the choice. He would say that in the long run ‘Wisdom would pay a bigger dividend’.

In v. 12 Solomon tells us that wisdom dwells with prudence giving the impression that prudence is one of the foundational pillars of wisdom. Prudence has the meaning of wisdom in the management of the affairs of life. The application of prudence in a particular situation would prompt us to attend to things quickly when that is what is needed. However, in another situation prudence would prompt us to wait, moving slowly through the process because in that situation it was the right thing to do.

Prudence is listed as one of the seven pillar virtues as adopted by the early church fathers. The list of the seven virtues as adopted by the church is actually two lists of virtues, the first known as the cardinal virtues and the second known as the theological virtues. The cardinal virtues are:

·         Prudence

·         Justice

·         Temperance

·         And, Courage

The Theological virtues are:

·         Faith

·         Hope

·         And, Love or charity

Prudence can be defined as:

·         the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason (or wisdom)

·         shrewdness or wisdom in the management of one’s affairs

·          skill and good judgment in the use of resources

·         caution or circumspection as to danger or risk.

·         caution in regard to practical matters

·         discretion

·         correct timing in the application of an action to achieve the necessary outcome

Prudence can be applied to finances, speech, relationships, time management and all other aspects of life.  Prudence can and should temper every decision we make in life. Good ideas and actions really do not hit the mark without the application of prudence. It says that wisdom lives with prudence meaning that they are intimately and directly related. You cannot have one without the other.

Solomon also says in v. 12 that wisdom finds out knowledge by witty devises or inventions. Knowledge has a location that is not always easy to find. Prior to the internet knowledge was sometimes impossible to locate. Wisdom may be found in common places, but knowledge may need to be sought out. Wisdom knows the address to knowledge, the secret path so to speak, where knowledge is located. Wisdom has the ability to find it out. The path to knowledge may have many obstacles and curves making it hard to locate. Wisdom knows the direction and will show us the way to knowledge and understanding. This is why wisdom should be one of the key ingredients in the package of education. As we talked about in an earlier study, in our current culture it seems that knowledge comes in a package all by itself. Knowledge by itself is potentially dangerous. Wisdom knows where to find knowledge and more important how to apply it properly. Having God develop this trait of wisdom in you will help you to find out things in life that you normally might not figure out or understand. Wisdom will help you make ends meet and connect all the dots arriving at your needed destination.

V.13 says that when we begin to understand the ‘fear of the Lord’ we begin to adopt the Lord’s perspective on this world system and how it operates. Solomon here, speaking for God by inspiration of the Holy Spirit uses a pretty strong word. He uses the word hate. He says the God hates things like evil, pride, arrogance, the evil way or the habitual practice of evil deeds and the perverse mouth. Jn. 3:19-21makes this passage in Proverbs clearer. It says in John 3:19 that men loved darkness rather than light. Earlier in the book of John, the 1^st chapter, John refers to Christ as the Light that came into darkness, i.e. the darkness of this world. It says in Jn. 3:20 that everyone that lives in communion with evil and evil ways hates the light of God and God’s ways and disagrees with how God sees things. They would rather live in darkness than to come into the light of God’s ways. But, when we begin to know the fear of the Lord, reverencing Him for who He is and for being much wiser than us we begin to realize how wise He is and begin to ‘See it His way’. We begin to understand God.

The problem with this verse is that sometimes those who claim to be Christians transfer that ‘hate’ to those who live in darkness. Maybe not literally at first, but we can begin to think this. But, this verse says that God hates these sins. In jn. 3:18 it tells us that those who live in darkness already stand condemned. We don’t need to condemn them. But, in the verse just before that, Jn. 3:17, it tells us that God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. By coming, He had compassion on those ‘in darkness’. However, His coming did not change God’s disdain for their actions.  He still does ‘hate’ those things listed in v. 13. The fear of the Lord, however, says that when we begin to actually reverence God we also begin to strongly ‘hate’ those sins listed in Prov. 8:13…even if they be found in us…

Read 8:14-7 Have you ever had a conversation with yourself. V. 14 tells us that wisdom often has a private discussion with us as we ponder or muse the things and affairs of life. We live in a fast paced world and want quick answers. This verse reminds us that Wisdom can be our councilor if we take the time to let it. Much of life is worked out here, in council with ourselves, hopefully with God and wisdom present. God, the essence of Wisdom, is called ‘our Councilor’ in Jn. 14:26 NIV. It is good to consult with Him regularly about the affairs of life. Wisdom will show us the way and give us the answers.

In v. 14 it also says that wisdom is understanding. Full understanding of a situation or mystery is important in life. If you think of it, we often think that we know a particular situation only to find out that there is more to the story. Wisdom will say, ‘Wait’, maybe there is more to this than I am aware of. Our busy schedule will tell us to rush on making decisions with limited understanding. Wisdom will tell us to stop and take a little more time to get the full picture. It could be important.

It also says in v. 14 wisdom is ‘strength’. In much of life we get pushed around by others who intimidate us. They speak with confidence saying things that may not be true at all. Wisdom gives us an inner strength that will stand strong when confronted by untruths. Having a wise heart can help us to discern things as they happen, helping us to not be easily intimidated because we stand on the truth. Having a wise spirit can help us judge a situation seeing things and having insights that cannot be known by intellect alone.

V. 15-6 Remind us that wisdom is essential for those who rule. Some rulers have more wisdom than others it is true. But, even the worst leader or ruler has to at least have some wisdom to be in a leadership position. The more wisdom the better the leader Solomon would say. It reminds us that if we want a strong nation and all the benefits that Solomon tells us that wisdom gives we need to elect wise leaders. Our present justice system, not the system itself so to speak, but those in these positions could stand a good examination.

V. 17 tells us that those who love wisdom and hang out with it are loved back by wisdom. Befriending wisdom will have the result of wisdom befriending us. Our life is greatly benefited by a friendship with wisdom. This verse also tells us that we need to seek wisdom out early before things get messy. Wisdom is found in the prudence of applying wisdom right from the gate.

Read 8:18-21 V. 19-20 remind us of the real value of wisdom and the path followed by wisdom will have a just end. V. 18 tells us that both riches and honor are a benefit in the application of wisdom. Honor and righteousness are both valuable commodities and bring their own benefits with them. Honor and righteousness open doors of great value. People respect these attributes of wisdom and trust us more in relationship and reputation allowing us special privileges with them and benefits not otherwise offered to others.

But, Solomon also makes the point in v.18 and 21 that there is a real financial benefit to the application of wisdom. We for some reason we tend to push this point aside as if it is unspiritual and a wrong perspective. Solomon makes a point of it as one of the benefits of wisdom and we would do well to embrace this benefit. Embracing the concept of wisdom having a substative value does not mean we love substance. Many because of unwise practices in life are destitute unable to make life work.

Solomon would agree that good habits have real life value, but bad habits or no habits devalue our existence. Because prudence is not applied to areas of life, not just in the areas of finances, substance seems to slip away and life costs more to make it work. The application of wisdom to daily things like our car, what time we start work, organization, better choices, time investment, and yes leisure can have big financial impacts, either positive or negative. He, Solomon, knows and says that if wisdom is applied that we will inherit substance and have money in the bank. He says this to us. Are we listening?

We all know that someone can have a moderate income but apply wisdom and frugality and have more than they need. Others not applying wisdom can’t make enough money even though they have a great income. They are always in a bind because wisdom is not a habit of their life. These people often believe that making more money is the answer to their problem. Wisdom would help us make better choices in all areas of our life, not just financial, making a real benefit in our bottom line.

Read Prov. 8:22-36 Solomon begins this section by declaring some pretty amazing foundational truths about wisdom. He says that this same wisdom that he is sharing and trying to impart to us had its beginning with God. God was the possessor of this wisdom in the beginning, before His created works began. V. 23-6 tells us that wisdom was His before anything that was created was. V. 24 refers to the foundational elements of creation, water being the one of the main components. It says that Wisdom was His before the basic elements of earth were founded. V. 25-6

In v. 27-8 it says that this wisdom that he talks about was there with God when He formed the universe and the earth’s atmosphere. By this wisdom He set the compass of the earth, and… it worked…It worked just right because of wisdom. I personally wonder if the compass that Solomon is referring to refers to the force that holds the universe together, including gravity and all the other things that allow these things to consist. V. 28 says that wisdom was used to establish the clouds and was applied to strengthen and sure up the foundation of the earth. It was also applied when He gave instructions to the sea as to its boundaries. In making this real He gave properties by wisdom to water which makes water obey His command. Wisdom was used to make water what it is, making its properties different that air or solid matter.

V. 30 says that God and wisdom are intimately connected, wisdom never being absent from the presence of God. It says that God enjoyed wisdom…immensely. It was a great pleasure to Him. It also says in v. 31 that He actually rejoiced in His finished work of creation and it also says that His delight was with His special part of creation…man. By wisdom He delighted in us. Hard to believe knowing all the grief that we cause Him.

After all this amazing commentary on wisdom, Solomon’s conversation comes back to the voice of a loving father, asking his children to process and apply what he just said. He says that he said all this so that his children can have the blessing and benefit of this wisdom applied. Ponder what Solomon has just told us. He is telling us that we too will benefit as if we were actually sitting under his tutelage if we to apply his message. V. 34 reminds us that the application of wisdom is to be a daily habit and something that we should be anxious to be acquire every day. Every day there is new wisdom to be acquired, new wisdom to be learned. It invades every part of life if we let it.

V.35 reminds us that wisdom is life itself, and that God finds joy and pleasure in those who also love wisdom. Oh, yea, those who apply wisdom obtain favor and blessing with God, it says so right here.

v.36 leaves us with the reminder that sinning against God is not wise, and has its own penalties and consequences. All the benefits of wisdom that Solomon just gave us have the opposite effect in our life when we go against them. Solomon refers to it as sin. He ends this chapter by saying that those who do not apply wisdom to their life will see the effects of death in their life. The effects of death can be a slow process or quickly realized. One thing is for sure the application of wisdom has great benefits to our life when applied. Solomon would say seek wisdom and apply it no matter what it initially costs you. Your investment will be worth it. 

Proverbs Study – Lesson 6 –October 17, 2010 – Seacoast Community Church

Proverbs Study – Lesson 6

It isn’t easy staying on the right path. As a matter of fact it is hard and takes a lot of effort to stay on ‘the Path’ so to speak. There are many opportunities to make wrong or bad choices that can have a big impact on life. Solomon begins chapter 7 by reminding parents and pupil that it is a lot of work and an extended training course to prepare children for life. He talks repeatedly in the book of Proverbs about the pupil not forsaking what they have been taught, building on the foundation that has been previously laid down .He uses terms like ‘bind them´ upon your fingers and ‘write them’ on the table of your heart indicating putting these sayings in a handy place, I.e. your fingers, that you can be reminded of them often and writing them upon your heart speaks of memorization of these principles. Much training has already been given. More will follow. Solomon’s habit and pattern or method of bringing up children is labor intensive, time intensive, personal and intentional. In other words this training is hands on, both parents being engaged in the process. He has goals in mind of what the end product of this process will look like. It is a mentoring mission to bring up good kids.

He leaves nothing out of this training process, including the important and the ‘real’ parts of life. All areas of life need to be brought up and discussed, including the basic, like scheduling and goals, as well as the difficult subjects, which we see here in chapter 7.  He, being a father, was intimately engaged in the process. Many fathers are missing or inadequately involved in this important stage of a young person’s life. They are either busy working or have other competing interests that divert them from spending the much needed time in this training process. Solomon’s example favored being involved, not leaving this important job to chance. He wanted to be sure that those he loved had the best chance to survive and the ability to make good decisions in the difficult parts of life.

It is interesting to note the topics that he chose to include as important and essential or necessary to being successful in life. He has already given us the charge to not only get wisdom, but to go after knowledge and understanding, an important trio. As he continues to teach and train he includes other very important life related topics, like chastity, manors and people skills. He repeatedly, in the first chapters of Proverbs, reminds his students to ‘work hard’ not only to learn these teachings, but to also use methods to make these teachings part of their makeup or fabric. He instructs them to remember or memorize these teachings. He also tells them to apply or practice them, acting them out so that they become familiar and comfortable actions when the need to apply them arises. It is the fabric of an individual that is actually the essence of them. Solomon tells them and us to actually make these precepts part of our fabric, becoming part of our life.

He also encourages his student to have the right attitude and perspective toward this process, looking at the accusation of wisdom as a sister (v. 4) or a close family member and not looking at the process of learning wisdom as a choir. Wisdom is our friend and needs to be embraced and is not a choir. It should be practiced like any skill that becomes enjoyable, music, sports, fencing, tennis, poetry, etc..  Read Prov. 7:1-5

Solomon begins this section giving instruction concerning the strange woman. The term that he uses is an appropriate one, as this term stranger often refers to one who is probably a first time encounter or at least someone that you would not be too familiar with. In v. 5 he not only uses the term strange woman for this person, but he also uses the term foreigner, again giving reference that this person is a new encounter.  Strangers often have a way of becoming familiar with those who they have never met just by being friendly. A friendly stranger is not a telltale sign that that person has bad intentions. But, Solomon tells us to beware because friendly strangers may not be who they appear to be. In one way this lesson kind of relates to last week’s lesson concerning having surety for your neighbor. Blindly trusting people that you do not know is risky, so it is best to be cautious being sure to keep yourself in safe boundaries until you know for sure who your new acquaintance is. But, in the case of the example given in chapter 7, this situation should never be trusted.

Solomon tells us in v. 7 that he was standing by the window in his house looking out, when he observed a young man going down the street that he tagged as being ‘simple’ or ‘void of understanding.  How did Solomon know this about this young man? He said that he observed the young man venturing into territory that he shouldn’t be in. A prudent person would not be found in a place like this. He says that this person ventured into the wrong part of town. The text gives the impression that the young man came to this part of town intentionally. He was young. He had not been taught or he did not listen to the instruction that made it clear that it is good to stay clear of places like this.

In Solomon’s day it was a certain part of town or a particular place in that region that would have been common knowledge to stay away from because of inherent danger or the people who lived there. This young, foolish, simple one probably knew the part of town he was in, but did not fully realize the danger. He was looking for love in the wrong place. He was in the wrong part of town by his own choice at the wrong time of the day,Read Prov. 7:8-9.

This is a serious topic that can have serious consequences that is all too often taken to lightly. Some, the foolish, dabble and play with these areas not realizing the probable outcome. It happened to others, but it will never happen to me are famous, or infamous, last words. In our day the numbers of potentially dangerous sites of possible encounters like this have increased. It is not just limited to the street corner. Online experiences and other modern encounters add dramatically to this type of problem. Many will say that these areas of contact are not as bad as they are made out to be. But, in my personal observations of such encounters the outcomes or end results of such beginnings have not been that good. In observing these relationships play out unforeseen problems all too often arise leaving in the end serious consequences that may last a life time. It would be wise for the ‘simple’ to remember that they do not know this person that they are becoming friendly with. They had never met them before even though familiarity may be established quickly. In this type of encounter you have no knowledge of what drives this individual. There is an underlying message in this passage that says that this is not the place to start a relationship. Solomon would highly advocate getting to know someone in a totally different and appropriate setting.

V. 10 tells us that she was dressed to attract the wrong kind of attention and has her own agenda in mind. Many relationships begin with physical sex appeal attraction. Solomon would suggest different criteria. The King James says that she is subtle of heart. The New American Standard says that she is cunning of heart. The NIV puts it that she comes with crafty intent. He is reminding us that what you think that you see is not what you get. She has her own interests in mind.

It is wise to remember that even though Solomon gives this instruction to his son, warning of the evil woman, it could also be turned around to warn women of the evil man whose motives are the same even though some of his methods may be somewhat different. Both would flatter with words. Both would have an agenda. Both would use deceptive methods to get what they wanted, in the end, leaving no thought for the victim’s final outcome and final end.

V. 12 Tells us that she has a dominant personality and is Loud and overbearing, and is stubborn and insistent. It also makes the point that this person is not a homemaker. Weather male or female, this person is not going to bring happiness, but instead in the end only misery. V. 12They live on the street, waiting for their next victim or their next vehicle to pleasure. Tonight it is you. Tomorrow it is someone else. When they use you up it is over whether you are satisfied or not. They have no loyalty except to themselves. The one night of pleasure is now over and that relationship of yesterday is past.

V. 13-4 She becomes friendly very quickly and is unashamed by her actions. The Bible in Basic English says:

·         V. 13She took him by his hand, kissing him, and without a sign of shame she said to him, v.14 I have a feast of peace offerings, for today my oaths have been effected.

The Message puts it this way:

·         V. 13 She threw her arms around him and she kissed him, boldly took his arm and said, V. 14 “I’ve got all the makings for a feast – today I’ve made my offerings, my vows are all paid.”

She displays the emotion of confidence that what they are about to do is right and good. She is bold about her action. She gives him the impression that she is spiritual and current with God, giving the impression that God is ok with her and what she is doing. She promises to feed him…the death blow, what more could one want.

v. 15 She lies to him making him think that he is the only one she has ever loved. She says that she came looking for him. One translation puts it this way:

·         V. 15 So I came out in the hope of meeting you, looking for you with care, and now I have you…

V. 16-8 (READ) She sets the bait, promises of great pleasure. V.19-20 She assures him that it is safe. No one will know. She assures him that her husband is gone and there will be no surprises. She assures him that she knows exactly when he will return, and they have a lot of time to get acquainted.

V21-3 (READ) There is nothing left for him but to follow her. At this point it is all over. V.22 She is leading the way. A man who is overcome by this sin and temptation is a follower and not a leader. She will do what she wants with him now. He is at her mercy. V. 22-3 give the impression that this can be a life or death situation. It says in v. 22 that the path that he is on at the end is the same as the path of an ox being lead to the slaughter. V. 23 says that it is the same as someone putting an arrow through your liver, and like a bird that is hastening to the snare. A snare is used to catch a bird for dinner. The end of v. 23 says that this encounter is a life and death situation, v. 27 going down into the chambers of death.

V. 24-5 (READ) Solomon gives his final plea telling the one being instructed, male or female, that these words of instruction are capable of saving your life. V. 26 says,” For she has cast down many wounded; yea, many strong men have been slain by her.” One might think that Solomon is slightly exaggerating the repercussions of this kind of encounter. Pride would say, “It won’t happen to me. I am in control. That may be the end of some, but not me. It is worth the risk. I will survive.”

But, funny things happen that are not counted on when relationships like this occur. Emotions get tangled up, and both sets of emotions generally do not match. Word of this affair gets out to others involved in their lives. Tempers flair. Things, unexpected things, happen. It is true that even a strong man can be emotionally ruined, but… even worse can happen.

Recently a young girl got snagged by the words of an evil man in a one time encounter, as far as was known, while at a tavern for a birthday party. She was a police chief’s daughter and did not have the reputation of being a partier. Somehow these two got connected and the end of the night did not turn out so well. She took a chance…she had no idea who this man was. The rest is now history. It turned deadly. Who knows what went on? Solomon here is giving wise council. He is not exaggerating. This is wise council. It was interesting to hear what the father of the victim was quoted saying following the incident. It sounded a lot like Solomon’s advice. His advice to young women was to not forget what they had been taught growing up about trusting and getting involved with strangers, in this case strange men, getting acquainted in the wrong place. Solomon warned about getting involved with the strange woman and finding yourself in the wrong part of town. There are many good reasons to stay clear of places like this. There are no good reasons to go there.

(Illustration used Valerie Hamilton, Police chief’s Merl Hamilton’s daughter)

Hamilton said he wanted his daughter's death to serve as a reminder to all young women to be aware of their surroundings and stay safe.

"I hope that the other young ladies out there, that they'll remember the lessons they were taught as youngsters about being safe," he said. "It carries into when you're in the 20s, ladies.

"Make sure the men treat you with respect and be safe."

His advice to other young women sounds a lot like the advice that Solomon gives repeatedly, “Do not forget what you have been taught” It could save your life.

Proverbs Study – Lesson 5 –October 10, 2010 – Seacoast Community Church

Proverbs Study – Lesson 5

(READ) Proverbs 6:1-10 (New International Version)

Warnings Against Folly

 ¹ My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge for another, ² if you have been trapped by what you said,
ensnared by the words of your mouth, ³ then do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor's hands:

Go and humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor! ⁴ Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids. ⁵ Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler.

Have you ever been in this situation? Not a fun place to be. How did you get there? How could you have avoided this situation? How could you have been helpful without becoming entangled in their mess, making matters worse? Helping someone is one thing, but agreeing to do something in the moment that is not going to make their problem better, that is another story.  Now that you are in this situation, now what do you do? Relationships are at times difficult. Sometimes all too often, we find ourselves in difficult situations that could have been avoided if we only had thought about the situation a little bit more or taken a little more time to let things become clear before we commit to something that we smart for later. Requests are made to us during emotional times. Their situation in their mind needs immediate attention, and therefore immediate commitment from you to fix their problem. And, sometimes this is true. But, more often than not, we do not give enough time to think through the ramifications to come up with the best solution.  

This passage applies to all types of commitments and agreements that we might make with our neighbors. From temporarily loaning your neighbor money, temporary, yea right, to making promises to your neighbor that in the end you find out that you cannot fulfill. Intentions were right.  Things are said on a whim. Just not enough thought as to what this commitment will really cost. Time, attention, money. And, is what you propose is really the right answer?

Solomon is not saying that we should not help others. He makes that plain in Prov. 3:27-8 to not withhold good from them to whom it is due.  But, what he is saying is think about your commitment before you jump in with help. Can you fulfill it? Will you be good with the outcome because things do not always turn out as expected. It takes more time than you thought. You don’t get paid back. These are all aspects of dealings with those we come in contact with. Solomon uses the words’ trapped’  and  ‘ensnared’ with the words of our mouth as descriptive terms of this encounter. Ever been there?

This passage deals with the full gumut of agreements that occur between people. From posting bail and cosigning a car loan to giving a recommendation for someone that you do not know well enough. We get involved in other people’s lives and often only get half the story, if that. The first thing that Solomon is telling to do us is to be sure and get the facts before making a commitment.

We learn from our mistakes. But, some mistakes regarding agreements are very complicated and it is not always easy to fix the damage. Sometimes we even find ourselves trapped in what we had agreed to do. We hadn’t figured on this. Solomon tells us to go humble ourselves with the party involved and explain to them the situation. Often, when we find ourselves in this situation we are embarrassed that we cannot fulfill our agreement. We often put off going to the party because of this. Solomon tells us to get things straightened out before they get worse. Someone is counting on your support. Ignoring dealing with the situation will hurt them in the end. He advises to go to them and free yourself by asking them to let you out of the deal. You will both feel better for it.

Prov. 6:6-8 We can learn a lot of things from things that seem to be doing it better than we are. Some things are small in size, but can teach us a lot. The ant is one of those small things. In observing the ant Solomon watched their ways and was very impressed with their organization, their strength and their determination. Nothing lazy about these dudes.  Work all the way and happy to do it. Service with a smile. Our country was founded and established with traits like these. Somehow we have lost our work ethic that was founded on these principles. When you watch an ant it is happy to do its job and then some. When I have watched ants while they are at work it was common to see an ant headed in a direction on a mission, only to be diverted momentarily to pick up a load and carry it only because he was going that way. You don’t have to give an ant a reason to work. They are born to work. They need no overseer to get the job done, they wouldn’t think about cheating the time clock. An honest day’s pay for an honest day’s work is his motto. The ant plans ahead. It knows that now is the time for work while it is yet pleasant, because it knows that harsher weather will be here soon enough.

Unlike the person in the following verses 6:9-11 who does not see the destruction at the door.  The person described in this passage is just plain lazy. He sleeps all the time. Never plans ahead or accomplishes anything. He is concerned with personal comfort. Interested in only what benefits him. Unlike the ant who is willing to pitch in at any time, this guy says you do it, come and get me only if you need me, but be prepared to peel me out of bed first. He lets you know that he will probably not be much help, and he is right. Their motto is don’t do today what you can put off till tomorrow. And, if you put it off long enough it will go past the point of repair so it won’t need fixing then either.

Solomon tells us that this type of lifestyle has its consequences. Things may look ok for now, but trouble is at the door. Travail in v. 11 refers to sudden onset. The pain associated with this problem is often on par with extended hard labor. The reality of life is that you really cannot plan too much or work too hard. Life is just that way. Solomon is saying ‘get use to it. Work is here to stay. And, it will be here tomorrow also’. He is not advocating becoming a workaholic. He would also advocate respites of recreation. Solomon would advocate balance. But, there is no substitute for hard work.

READ 6:12-15 This individual is not to be trusted. His intentions are not good. He puts on a good front, but what he wants you to think about him is not who he really is. He uses gestures and mannerisms to hide what is really in his heart. I don’t know how you are with body language, but I typically am not good at reading it. I like to take people at face value…believe what they say. Solomon here is telling us to wisen up. To realize that people often have agenda’s. Hidden agendas. Sometimes evil agendas.

He is telling us to here beware of people that use traits of expression and communication that attempt to steal your attention by using dominate body language or communication techniques. He tells us to be cautious and beware of people that use unusually loud and often dominant speech,  or that talk with their hands in a crafty way, or, that wink with their eye acting like they’ve known you from before you were born, or that move their feet using fancy footwork to distract you from their real intentions. The hand is quicker than the eye. Beware to not watch the hand only. Solomon is telling us to be wise, looking elsewhere in the encounter to find out their real intentions. Attention getting gestures are usually a diversion from something else that is going on, and you are probably their target.

This problem is taken to another level since the advent of modern technology. In our present day we are inundated with these encounters as we watch many of these individuals attempting to sell us concepts or products that do not enrich our lives in the least. The outcome in this encounter just enriches their life. They use these gestures, the footwork, the hand motions, the winking of the eye, oh, and yes, we cannot forget their bigger than life smile to get us to buy what they are selling. Solomon tells us to look past the technique and focus on what they are really trying to do. V. 14 tells us that perversity is in his heart and that his purpose is to sow discord. He has the makeup that only devises mischief.

Prov. 6:16-24 gives us 7 things that the Lord HATES.  I like it when things like this are black and white.  Quite often the rules are not real clear and it is hard to know exactly where the line is. Here Solomon gives us a list to be aware of. He tells us that the Lord hates these things. Hate is a pretty strong word. Yet that is the word that Solomon chose. If the Lord hates these things, then they bother him a lot.

As parents we know that expression. There are things that our children do that get our attention in the negative direction. Many of these actions are more of an annoyance and although they need attention, they are not life threatening. But, if we were to stop and think about it, there is probably only a short list of a few of their actions or habits that fall into the more serious arena eliciting a much stronger response from you. In these verses we get the Lords short list of the things that He dislikes the most.   They are as follows:

·         A proud look

·         a lying tongue

·         hands that shed innocent blood

·         a heart that deviseth wicked imaginations

·         feet that are swift in running in running to mischief

·         a false witness that speaks lies

·         he that sows discord between the brethren.

This is the Lord’s short list according to Solomon. These things not only get the Lord’s attention in the wrong direction, but they elicit a response from Him. A response that is not pretty. These are traits that one should definitely consider weeding out of their makeup if they are found there. Solomon here simply lists them assuming that we should take it from there heeding his warning.  He follows in the next few verses with the admonition not to forsake the instruction of his father and mother reminding him of their benefits if he will work hard and apply them. Solomon here by writing this passage is asking us a question. His question is this, “Does it bother us that the Lord hates the actions in the list that he gave us?” To many in our culture it really does not seem to make any difference what so ever.

However, to those of us who do love the Lord, Solomon makes a list for us to commit to memory to remind us guard against letting these things become part of our actions and out live. It is a good idea to write them down as a list and post it to read to commit them to memory. Reading them daily and attempting to commit them to memory over a 30 day period can be helpful.

V. 24-9 Solomon tells us that application of good instruction that was given to you by your father and mother will make you wise, giving you the ability to avoid the snare of the evil woman. This woman has some pretty serious weapons. A fool having not having received instruction will pass this way not changing his course because of the danger and having no knowledge of how to protect himself. She uses flattery, her beauty and her eyelids to begin to ensnare her victim. Solomon uses some interesting terms to describe the outcome. He says that by the means of an unchaste woman a man is brought to a ‘piece of bread’. Unchaste gives the impression of an environment where anything goes, she exhibits no control over her actions.  She does what she pleases, using any method she devises to accomplish her goal, ensnaring the victim. For a brief time/moment while the trap is set …pleasure is promised.

But, Solomon reminds the one who is instructed that you cannot take hot coals to your chest and not get burned or walk on hot coals and not get burned. If you embrace fire you will get burned.

V. 29 reminds us not to flirt with a dangerous direction. Temptations pass by all of us. Be wise and turn in another direction. Temptations present innocent enough. They can knock on our door, but we do not need to open it.

V. 30-31  Reminds us that a hungry thief is easier to forgive than one who robs for wealth. He goes on to remind us of the payback required by the Law when caught. He warns those who even steal because they are hungry that if it is a habit that soon they will have nothing left in their house.

In vs. 32-5 He reminds of the further consequences of adultery. In v. 33 he reminds that the incident will become public and will not be forgotten by those in the community. He also warns of the danger of such a situation triggering the jealousy of a husband or boyfriend. All they will see is blood, your blood and often the rage is so strong that nothing will stop him.

Proverbs Study – Lesson 4 –October 3, 2010 – Seacoast Community Church

Proverbs Study – Lesson 4

Read Prov. 4:1-4 Solomon begins in chapter 4 by giving advice to his children. In chapter 3 he gave council and advice to a son, so to speak. One on one instruction which was meant to be direct. Now he broadens his advice to a larger audience addressing all who will listen. He calls them his children, which could have been literal or he could have been using a term of endearment for those he loved and felt responsible for. Kings were known to have many children and were responsible for their training and upbringing. However, Solomon had a tender heart for the people of his nation and it is likely that he was referring to the people of his nation, or at least referring to those who were approaching leadership of this nation.

We had talked before about the fact that entire nations are profoundly affected by either the application and use of wisdom and understanding, or the lack of use and application of wisdom. Solomon the wise king knew the importance of a nation that embraced wisdom. We have seen over the course of history the results of nations that have done the opposite, embracing selfishness, greed and foolishness or foolish ways. Nations either stand or fall depending upon the principles that are used as their foundation.

It is not military might that makes a nation strong. Military might alone may allow a nation to rise quickly, but that nation will usually fall just as quick if the foundation of wisdom is not used. Solomon, being wise, wanted to give his nation the opportunity to build on the right foundation. He was willing to invest to instruct them. In v. 1 he uses the phrase ‘the instruction of a father’ instead of ‘your father’ giving the impression of identification and not direct relation with those being instructed. Solomon here is also addressing us asking what our personal foundation is built on and what foundation we are building our nation on.

In v. 3 he reminds them that you are never too young to begin the process of learning wisdom. Most parents wait too long. The demonstration of wisdom can be shown by example to those who are very young. Solomon says that he is a good example stating that he was tender when his instruction began. Many of the habits for life are formed during the first few years of life. Once learned habits are very hard to change or break.

V. 5-9 (READ) Solomon again builds on the foundation of wisdom and impresses his students with the importance of knowledge and understanding. These are terms that we need to understand and define. He again reminds us that they are the keys to life and cannot be overlooked if we want life to work and work well. Often our very survival depends on our application of these terms. But, are the definitions of the words knowledge and understanding the same or are they merely related to each other. And, if their meanings are related and not identical then what is the importance of each word and how do they work together and/or depend upon each other:

· What is the difference between wisdom and knowledge?

· Are wisdom and understanding the same?

· Is understanding different than knowledge?

· Can you have wisdom without knowledge?

· Can you have knowledge or understanding without the presence of wisdom?

Solomon frequently uses the words wisdom, knowledge and understanding as things to acquire. He tells us to work hard and ‘pay the price’ to obtain them. These terms are frequently found together as if Solomon wanted us to know that one without the other can have little to no value, or could even have a negative effect on life. It appears that of the three terms he esteems wisdom as the most important. (Prov. 4:7) However, Solomon knew that even wisdom though highly prized was dependent upon knowledge and understanding.

There is much debate as to the exact definition of these terms. This is probably due to the fact that they are so interdependent upon each other. However, we frequently or more commonly refer to

· the facts or details as knowledge,

· the how things work or how the facts are applied making them useful as understanding

· and the discernment and insight in making a judgment as to how to apply knowledge and understanding for the most beneficial outcome as wisdom.

The balance of the use of these terms is important. Our world today tilts heavily in the direction of knowledge. The internet is not founded on wisdom at all, but instead is strongly based on knowledge often unrestrained giving the impression that knowledge, not wisdom, is the principle thing. Colleges and universities often tend to do the same. Solomon knew the importance of all of these. But, he gave wisdom as the overseer of knowledge and understanding. He also knew that wisdom could not be applied without the presence of knowledge. Knowledge is necessary to be able to apply wisdom.

This brings up several important points. In these passages Solomon is making a point of the importance of learning. Knowledge is power. Education is a powerful tool in the life and ministry of a Christian. Thus Solomon admonishes us to get knowledge and to get understanding. Solomon would have highly advocated the formal instruction in the basic and advanced sciences for any and all who aspire to be wise. In all likelihood it would have been a requirement for all up and coming young princes and leaders in his kingdom. His tone in these passages is that we should always be learning about life and how it works, collecting the facts and learning or being instructed in knowledge. He would advocate learning as an ongoing process in our life.

However, as you read through these passages he gives the impression that knowledge should be acquired in the presence of wisdom. This is a concept apparently foreign to us today. I think that he would take issue with the method and intent of how learning occurs in the current world environment. Much of education in our society includes an element of indoctrination of a world view and openly or sometimes subtly denies the wisdom of God, which Solomon set as the foundation for learning, Prov. 1:7. Many of our educational institutions began with the approach of learning that Solomon advocated, using wisdom as the underpinning or foundation of learning, what happened?

Do we consider our self a student? Learning should b e ongoing at all stages of life.

Knowledge often comes in a package that includes evil. Solomon seemed to divide it out, making it obvious what was good and what was not.

V. 11 makes mention of being taught in the way of wisdom, and being led in the right paths. The way of wisdom has a poetry and flavor about it. At times he refers to wisdom as the taste of honeycomb, giving the thought that once we acquire a taste and try it out that it has a ‘pleasant’ feel, it ‘satisfies’ a part of our inner being. I had once made the comment to a young person that they were so polite and that I appreciated that. His response to me was ”I enjoy it”. He had found a pleasure in being polite. Wisdom and its application is this way.

v. 12 Ever know someone that has gifts and talents founded on wisdom that you don’t have yet. They have our envy. They are Sure footed and solid! Stable. Traits we all want in our life.

v. 14-7 tells us not to enter into the path of those who practice evil ways. As a matter of fact it instructs us to ‘Avoid it’, Pass not by it’, ‘Turn from it’, ‘pass away’. I Thes. 5:22 tells us to avoid even the appearance of evil. It is a difficult thing to be subject to the constant influence of people who practice evil ways. Many in urban areas and work situations are trapped in an environment where evil is practiced routinely. Language, stories, drug dealers, temptations. It isn’t easy. Solomon advises us that if at all possible to stay clear of these areas and do not begin these practices.

V. 19 refers to a dark path. There is often a natural tendency to not want to know the full truth. We can play the game that ‘what we don’t know won’t hurt us’. But, is that true? So often when we are living in darkness we run into things that hurt us. Sometimes we get injured quite badly. But, it is dark and we can’t even see what caused the injury and quite often we have no perception of how badly we are hurt. It is only when we come into the light of God’s Word that we see how damaging living in the darkness really was. Jn. 3:19-21 tells us that those that want to do wrong prefer the darkness and stay clear of the light. We do not always really want to know the truth. With truth comes responsibility. One who is truly seeking wisdom will want to be in the light, knowing God’s will and plan for their life.

V. 20-2 Do you ever find parents repeat themselves? I think that we have heard this before and Solomon will tell us again. He wants his children, us, to get the point.

V. 23 Out of the heart flow the issues of life. How difficult is it to control the heart? How difficult is it to control your heart? Out of the heart flow the issues of life. James tells us that it is a mystery that out of the same fountain flows fresh water and salt water, good and evil. James actually makes his reference to the tongue in that passage, but in actuality the tongue is the heart speaking out loud. Out of our heart it flows. If we think about how our heart functions, there is no telling what will begin to flow out next. All too often I am amazed at what begins to surface in my heart having my first reaction being ‘where did that come from’. Solomon gives good advice to keep the heart and deal with what comes out of it before it gets too far down stream, grabbing what’s bad and dealing with it and cultivating and watering what’s good.

V. 25 tells us to focus on what we are dealing with. Solomon tells us to look right on not being tempted to look at the evils to the right or to the left of our goal.

V. 26 he encourages us to ponder the path of our feet. A good question to ask ourselves as we continue down the road of life is, “where will this lead me?” Solomon here seems to be advocating that we plan our life making changes and adjustments as we go. Turn not to the left hand or the right hand refers to looking straight on, giving the implication that we should have a goal that we are going toward. Also, we should be careful not to get derailed by evil as we are traveling.

Read Prov. 5:1-13 This begins instruction concerning one of the most important aspects of life. There are many areas of life where we can go wrong and cause ourselves and those we love great pain, but three or four areas of life seem to be more prominent than all the rest, and this is one of them. One mistake in this area and sometimes life will never be the same. That does not mean that there is no hope…it is just that mistakes in this area of life can cause some of the most damage and pain/regret known to man.

Solomon warns that the beginnings of these encounters can begin so innocent and are so appealing to the senses. Much of the instruction in the Proverbs deals with discretion and discernment, traits learned far in advance of the encounter. In v. 2 he also makes the point that it is important that one keeps their lips making sure that only knowledge passes out. There is a reason that he makes this point right in the very beginning. In the beginning of an encounter such as this discretion can begin to break down. One so called foolish phrase can open the door to Pandora’s Box…placing the interaction of those involved in an arena that is often impossible to stop. They call it rapping. Playing the game. Solomon would call it foolish talking. Discretion will keep you from entering into the dialog leaving it as a one sided conversation going nowhere. It is best not to ignite a fire!

This is not to say that Solomon is against proper relationships. The Bible is full of guidelines and accolades applauding and recommending proper relationships including the physical relationship of sex in marriage. Solid families are built on the foundation of love and relationship between two people in the proper biblical recommended setting. Often marriages get into trouble because of the lack of relationship and time spent together that the Bible says is necessary.

However, this is not the case here. There is a right time and a right place for everything and Solomon reminds that this is not the way to begin a relationship, especially for those that are married and committed. The song ‘the House of the Rising Son’ probably comes to mind to some of us which mentions some of the painful after effects of such an encounter. The problem in our culture is that these encounters have become much more common place and do not only refer to chance encounters on the street anymore..

I believe that Solomon is not just talking about the woman, or man, on the street, but is referring to all relationships that go down the wrong path. Common relationships have the same pitfalls as chance encounters once they begin. Our culture has built a foundation based on physical attraction and pleasure as the basis for operation. Solomon tells that that foundation has no foundation and all too often has the pain of death. Solomon directs those he is instructing to discretion. Discretion in our speech and in our actions will keep the relationship process on the right path giving God’s blessing to a relationship that is to be. Discretion will keep our lips often saying nothing.

Discretion is also used in combination with v. 8. We saw that Solomon gave this advise earlier in Proverbs where he recommended that one of the best steps that can be taken when found in this situation is to turn and remove yourself from the encounter. It is the foolish that will wait to be polite or wait till things get to the point that you think that you can’t handle. Solomon’s advises to take this step early and stay far away.

V. 8-13 tells us the end of such an encounter. Some are foolish enough to have more than one, often never recovering in life, before they learn. It tells us that the result of such an encounter often includes

· giving our honor to others

· giving our years to the cruel

· dividing what you have earned and giving it to others

· the emotional pain

V. 12-3 remind us that often we take this advice and shrug it off or don’t take it seriously. The end of v. 13 tells us that those who make this mistake, they ”did not incline their ear to them that instructed them”. You can make a bad situation better, but you can never erase it. Check out the exclamation point at the end of v. 13. Solomon himself did not always make the best choices in these areas. It is as if he spoke from experience. Like the lyrics from an old 60’s song, “son, tell your children not to do what I have done.” One additional thing to remember is that God’s mercy covers a multitude of sins.

READ V. 14-22 Where as the first part of chapter 5 tells us what not to do, the latter part of this chapter gives good advice on how to strengthen a proper relationship. V. 15-8 reminds us that our affection needs to be directed in ONE direction…toward our wife, or toward our husband, whichever the case may be. There are differing opinions as to the extent of friendship relationships with those of the opposite sex outside a marriage relationship. Some do not see any harm in them and others would say that they should not exist.

Solomon gives the instruction that we need to keep our relationships pure and the focus should be on our spouse. This is not only wise council from the standpoint of temptation, but is a healthy habit that will build a relationship with a spouse. All too often the problem in a relationship is that the relationship drifts apart due to lack of attention or focus. Solomon gives good advice that a relationship not only needs chunks of time and attention, but it also needs ‘to be romanced.’

There are competing factors for attention in life and one of the biggest is time. Time and competing demands pull a relationship apart. A relationship does not always fall apart from outside influences. It more often than not falls apart from within. Solomon advises us not to forget to give time and attention and romance to your relationship with your spouse!!! Our spouse needs to know that they are our focus and that we are and continue to be committed to them.

He goes on to tell us that the physical part of the relationship in a marriage is a very important part of that relationship and should not be neglected if you want to have a great marriage. This area is often a reflection of trust in a relationship. Not just trust that our spouse is pure, but trust that we accept and love them. Solomon gets a little open and pointed as to the extent of this relationship saying we should be satisfied physically with our spouse only and uses the term ‘Ravished’ describing the extent of the passion that should be found in a good marriage. Things are getting a little steamy… He reminds us that we can be satisfied completely in one relationship not looking further for fulfillment. We, however, may need to change our expectations and definition of fulfillment. It is not all about us. He advises that if romance is missing that it needs to be rekindled. Passionately!

In v. 20 he tells us not to go looking somewhere else for fulfillment. It will only lead to pain… Solomon reminds us about God…oh yea, God. Almost forgot. Today God does not usually come into our realm of thinking until far down stream in a situation. Solomon reminds us that we need to take God into consideration sooner in the process, considering what He thinks. God does watch over the affairs and decisions of man and it does matter to Him what decisions we make. Our ways are not hidden from Him. He does care.

Solomon ends this chapter giving a picture of the outcome of not heeding this advice. The outcome is not too pretty.