Proverbs - Chapter 8

Chapter 8 is all about wisdom. In this chapter wisdom speaks directly to us as she guides us through understanding and fear of the Lord.

Proverbs 8:10-13 Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. "I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion. To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior is perverse speech."

Fearing the Lord can seem overwhelming and make us wonder if being a Christian is positive. A note in my bible states that this fear isn't about being scared, but about having "reverence and respect" for the Lord.

The main thing I have learned while reading Proverbs is that knowledge of God's word is of the utmost importance. Being able to have scripture close to you and in your heart and mind can divert you from bad decisions and pull you through difficult times. Tonight in my Bible Study this point was reiterated while discussing emotions. We discussed harnessing our emotions for a better action. (Harness as in to bring together for use not as in hold it all in). The way to get a handle on our emotions was to replace those negative emotions with Scripture. Ok, not just random verses, but those that take away the power of the anger or anxiety or frustration or whatever your emotion may be. Those verses that specifically state how to turn it to the Lord.

Example - feeling of anxiety my personal demon
verse 1 Peter 5:6-8
6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. ⁷Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. ⁸Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

Proverbs 8:32-36 Now then, my sons, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord. but whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death.

Keep God's word in your heart. Use it as your wisdom. It will guide you in all you do. I continue to pray that God will etch his words on my heart that they may provide me the wisdom I need in all areas. It is much easier to make a biblically based decision if you know what it says...