Promises of Proverbs

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Several years ago I sat with an older pastor and asked for advice on how to better handle myself in contentious situations. I had participated in denominational meetings with him and had watched in amazement as he kept his cool in heated conversations. His advice to me was to spend time in Proverbs. Read it well and read it often and highlight every verse you see that relates to keeping your mouth shut. I took his advice and I continue to read Proverbs regularly (usually at least twice per year).

We know that all scripture is breathed out by God and is useful for reproof, correction, and training in all righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). Proverbs is certainly no exception, but as a whole the book of Proverbs is probably more applicable to daily life than any other book of the Bible. It is filled with advice on relationships, business matters, and money management. But, if you are one of those people who still need convincing, let me list for you several reasons that the writer of Proverbs gives for why you ought to be reading this book:

  1. To know wisdom and understanding
  2. To understand words of insight
  3. To receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity
  4. To give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion the youth
  5. To here and increase in learning
  6. To obtain guidance
  7. To understand proverbs and sayings
  8. To understad and apply the words of the wise

These promises come from Proverbs 1:2-6 and conclude with the assertion of 1:7,

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.

The collector of the Proverbs promises many things in its opening verses, but warns that such knowledge and understanding is only fully grasped when the Lord is first. One could easily envision the Proverbs opening with the prayer of the Psalmist, “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

So, get started. Seek the Lord and study His word. Or, as Proverbs 3:6 puts it, “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Since Proverbs is 31 chapters, you can read through it in a month by reading one chapter a day. If you would like to read through the Proverbs, here are a few plans to do so:

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