Proverbs 1:1-19
Reflect
We are diving into the book of Proverbs for the remainder of the summer. Are there any common proverbs you use in everyday conversations? Perhaps “You reap what you sow”; “you get what you paid for”; “no pain, no gain.” These are widely understood in our context and accepted as universal truths.
In his description of the book, theologian Tremper Longman III states, “Proverbs is a book that gives nitty-gritty instructions about how to avoid pitfalls and maximize success understood as having and maintaining robust relationships with others, maintaining personal health, and working in a way that will ensure a life-sustaining income.”
The central theme for Proverbs is found in our reading today: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge (or wisdom).” Israel’s history of encountering the holiness of God is deeply embedded within their identity. Thus, Jewish readers would recall the events of their deliverance from Egypt, their encounter with God at Mount Sinai, and much more. Take a few moments to read Deuteronomy 10:12 - 11:32. How does this inform your understanding of the fear of the Lord?
Orienting our lives around the fear of the Lord provides us with both a solid foundation and helpful direction for personal, ethical, and community decisions. By remembering the holiness of God, as well as His many other attributes, we stay in alignment with His heart and wisdom as we navigate life.
Pastor Melissa
Pray
- Pray through the prayer section in our program.
- Pray for our Congregational Life Pastor, Mike Bartusek and his family.
- Pray for Dave Schneider, our Youth and Worship Pastor and Erin Gibbard, Youth Ministry Associate.