Good Advice

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Text: Proverbs 1:7-10 

 7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. 8 My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother: 9 For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck. 10 My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. 


It is important that we understand the phrase, the fear of the Lord (v. 7). It is not literal fear, but rather, reverence and honor. 

 

"But what is the fear of the Lord? It is that affectionate reverence by which the child of God bends himself humbly and carefully to his Father's law." (Bridges)  

 

"If true wisdom can be simply gained by human effort, energy, and ingenuity (like the rare and precious metals of the earth), then the fear of the Lord is not essential to obtaining wisdom. But if it comes from God’s revelation, then right relationship with Him is the key to wisdom." (Guzik) 

 

In this passage of scripture, a set of instructions were given by Solomon: 

  • In all we do we must acknowledge the Lord first (v. 7). 
  • Do not neglect wisdom and instruction (v. 7). 
  • Hear the instructions of a father (v. 8). 
  • Listen to a mother's direction (v. 8).

Now these are quite virtuous and practical instructions. And, if these were to be followed, we would have a better world. They "are truly valuable, and shall be valued, who value themselves more by their virtue and piety than by their worldly wealth and dignity" (Henry). Though these instructions were given to the young, a parallel truth exists in the relationship with our heavenly Father. It was Solomon who also said, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Never rely on what you think you know. Remember the Lord in everything you do, and he will show you the right way" (Proverbs 3:5-6 GNT). 

 

Our heavenly father desires our affectionate reverence as any parent would. Though Solomon had great wealth and wisdom, he offered good advice in Ecclesiastes 12:13: Having heard everything, I have reached this conclusion: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man."

 

Finally, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not (v. 10). In other words, be careful of bad company. Do not succumb to peer pressure and bad advice. "Life is full of enticements to evil. We must have the courage and backbone to say “No” a thousand times a week" (Believer's Bible Commentary).


Prayer: Father I am sorry if I have neglected your instructions. At times I rely on what I think I know, and not trust you. Show me the right way so that I may have a right relationship with you. Amen!