Proverbs 2

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

The Value of Wisdom

To follow the precepts of wisdom is to ______ in the _____ of wisdom. Remember the 3 concise precepts of wisdom from chapter 1; revere God, respect authority and resist temptation.
The effort necessary to follow the way of wisdom is spoken of, in part, in verses 3 and 4. Identify the 2 aspects of effort that are given here.
List as many of the benefits of following in the way of wisdom as you can from verses 5-12.
In verses 16-19, descriptions are given of those who follow evil ways. However, these verses also disclose additional benefits for those following the way of wisdom. List them.
What will the eventual destiny of the wicked be according to verses 21 and 22? What about the destiny of the righteous?

To follow the precepts of wisdom is to walk in the way of wisdom. This phrase implies a consistent and continual daily walk.
The effort necessary to walk in the way of wisdom includes “crying out,” lifting up one’s voice in petition to God for wisdom, and seeking and searching in His Word for wisdom.
Some of the benefits of following the way of wisdom found in verses 5-12 are understanding (the fear of the Lord), finding knowledge (of God), sound wisdom, protection, preservation, discernment of justice and equity, discretion, and deliverance from evil ways.
Additional benefits for the one following the way of wisdom noted in verses 9-19 are the ability to discern between right and wrong, avoiding those who would lead us astray, and a moral integrity and ability to resist the temptation of immorality.
According to verses 21 and 22, the eventual destiny of the wicked will be the removal and cutting off from the earth, while the destiny of the righteous will be an entry into the promised land and an ongoing dwelling there.

Discuss the possible reasons why God inspired Solomon to use “the seductress” to exemplify the type of people who are the enemy of the righteous. As you review these reasons, consider the importance of the discernment that comes from following in the way of wisdom.

Read a chapter in the book of Proverbs each day for one month. During that month, keep a journal, noting the number of times you are tempted, either by your own thoughts or by people around you. Also note how and when the “way of wisdom” you have learned from your reading has kept you from further temptation and sin.

“He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly; He guards the paths of justice, and preserves the way of His saints.” Proverbs 2:7, 8