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Articles
The Wisdom We Can Learn from Proverbs 4
Proverbs 4 is a beautiful and practical chapter of wisdom literature, traditionally attributed to Solomon. It’s structured like a heartfelt speech from a father to his children, urging them to pursue wisdom above all else.
Proverbs 4: 1–9 tells us that of a Father's legacy is sharing Wisdom. We need to listen to the wisdom of Solomon and pass it down to the next generation. Verse 1 says, Hear, O sons, a father's instruction, and be attentive, that you may gain insight…" Here Solomon urges his children to listen to his teachings. He reflects on his own upbringing. Verse 5 says, "Get wisdom, get understanding" followed by verse 6 that reads “Do not forsake her, and she will keep you". Wisdom is compared to a woman—beautiful, noble, worthy of love and honor. Wisdom passed down to the next generation is priceless. Proverbs 4:10–19 Solomon tells us of two paths – Righteous vs. Wicked. The choices we make shape our life. Verse 11 tells us, "I have taught you the way of wisdom; I have led you in the paths of uprightness." Verse 18 reminds us of how the righteous path brings light, clarity, and growth while in verse 19 the wicked path is dark, unstable, and destructive. We never want our next generation to go down that wicked path. Vere 15 strongly warns us to avoid, pass by, and turn away from evil (that wicked path).
Proverbs 4: verses 20–27: tells us to guard our Heart. Verse 23 says, "Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life." Solomon advises us to: Watch your heart (v.23) Watch your mouth (v.24) Watch your eyes (v.25) Watch your feet (v.26–27). Should we not also advise our children and the next generations with that same wisdom.
In Wisdom your inner life determines your outer direction. Protect and guard your heart and it will determine the course of your life and the life of the next generation. That wisdom my friends, so desperately needs to be passed down to the next generation.
Robby Cable
Providence Church of Christ
606-305-8452
