My Intimate Friend

Show Notes

Scripture: Proverbs 1, 2, & 3

SHOW NOTES:

And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding beyond measure, and breadth of mind like the sand on the seashore.

– 1 Kings 4:29

True godly wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and will result in a holy life. Throughout the Proverbs, we read words of wisdom and caution from a father to his son. We are encouraged to listen carefully and lean into the wise instructions given to us.

This involves a choice. We must decide with our hearts. If we choose to walk the path of wisdom, we will follow God’s instruction and discover understanding and good judgment. The one who finds wisdom is blessed. It is better than silver or fine gold, more precious than jewels. Nothing can compare to wisdom.

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Show Notes

Scripture: Proverbs 4 & 5

SHOW NOTES:

The first step in acquiring wisdom is to make up your mind that you want it and will strive to obtain it (quote from Dr. Charles Ryrie). In other words, roll up your sleeves and put forth the effort to obtain it. Why? Because wisdom is valuable! It’s worth more than silver or gold. Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do!

The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; and with all your acquiring, get understanding.

– Proverbs 4:7

One principle that helps in the study of Wisdom Literature is to examine the verbs that drive the commandments. Chapter 4 is an excellent example of this study tool with both positive and negative admonitions. Follow along as we walk through these verses in today’s lesson.

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Show Notes

Scripture: Proverbs 6

SHOW NOTES:

Walt and I have been reading one chapter each day in the book of Proverbs. We share our observations in the chapter and pray together. Please join us in the 31-day Wisdom Challenge.

The way of the righteous is wisdom and the bright light of dawn. The way of the wicked is foolishness and total darkness. A wise father provides practical warnings for the son who will listen and heed the wisdom spoken.

The author of Proverbs points to the ant and says, “Take some time and think about this. The ant works hard even though no prince or governor tells her what to do. She gathers food in the summer and prepares for the winter.”

Good friend, follow your father’s good advice; don’t wander off from your mother’s teachings.

– Proverbs 6:20 (The Message)

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Show Notes

Scripture: Proverbs 8

SHOW NOTES:

God’s Word is a Treasure Trove! He invites us to dig into His Written Word and discover the wisdom He has placed there for each of us.

Listen as Wisdom calls out! Hear as understanding raises her voice! On the hilltop along the road, she stands at the crossroads. By the gates at the entrance to the town, on the road leading in, she cries aloud, “I call to you, to all of you! I raise my voice to all people.”

– Proverbs 8:1-4

Wisdom came forth before the earth began. Wisdom was born before the oceans, mountains, heavens, and clouds. Everything that God did in creation was wise and thoughtful.

Listen to Wisdom, follow her ways, and you will be joyful.

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Show Notes

Scripture: Proverbs 9

SHOW NOTES:

The author of Proverbs uses the literary tool of personification to add understanding and depth to godly wisdom. Lady Wisdom builds her house, prepares a banquet, and sends her maidens out to invite everyone to come.

Wisdom offers good teaching, sound counsel, insight, and discernment for all who enter her house. Sit with her, and you will be refreshed and satisfied.

Leave your simple ways, listen to her instruction, and learn from Wisdom. You will live. You will walk in the way of insight.

Beware of the woman Folly. She mimics Wisdom, and she hopes to lead you astray. She offers stolen water and immoral bread. Ultimately, Folly offers death.

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Show Notes

Scripture: Proverbs 10

SHOW NOTES:

The book of Proverbs is filled with King Solomon’s words of wisdom. The word righteous is found 90 times in this book. Chapter 10 presents the sharp contrast between a righteous person and a wicked or foolish person.

Read chapter 10 and notice these words – lips, mouth, and tongue. Solomon warns his readers to guard their tongues (see James 3:5-8). He offers this encouraging statement, “the tongue of the righteous is as choice silver” (Proverbs 10:20).

As this chapter closes, we read several hopeful affirmations.

The fear of the Lord prolongs life (v. 27)

The hope of the righteous is gladness (v. 28)

The way of the Lord is a stronghold to the upright. (v. 29)

The righteous will never be shaken (v. 30)

The mouth of the righteous flows with wisdom (v. 31)

The lips of the righteous bring forth what is acceptable (v. 32)

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