Wisdom of the LORD
The book of Proverbs is a fountain of wisdom, offering guidance and insight for a life well-lived. Among its many pearls, Proverbs 1:7 shines brightly, illuminating the path to true knowledge. This verse serves as a cornerstone, not only for the book itself but for understanding the nature of wisdom and learning.
Fear of the LORD – Reverence-Love
The phrase “the fear of the LORD” is a recurring theme in Biblical literature, encapsulating a profound respect and reverence for the Almighty. It is not a fear born of terror- but one of awe and wonder at the majesty and Holiness of God.
It is the starting point, the very beginning of knowledge, because it positions the heart to receive Divine Inspiring truths. To fear the LORD is to acknowledge His Sovereignty and to submit to His higher wisdom. And to love Him fully and unconditionally, while placing Him first in all we do!
The Beginning of Knowledge
Knowledge, as mentioned in Proverbs, is not merely the accumulation of facts or the mastery of skills. It is a comprehensive understanding of life’s principles as they relate to our Creator’s design. The “beginning” of this knowledge is akin to the foundation of a building; it is the essential and necessary base upon which all other learning is constructed. Without this rock-solid foundation, any structure of knowledge we build is unstable and prone to collapse. Such as illustrated by Jesus in the parable about the wise man builds his house upon a rock, the fool builds it on sand!
Matthew 7:24-27 –“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”
Fools Despise Wisdom and Instruction
In stark contrast to those who fear the LORD, the verse speaks of “fools” who despise wisdom and instruction. The term “fool” in Proverbs does not refer to a lack of intelligence, but to a moral deficiency. It describes individuals who are obstinate and arrogant, rejecting the guidance and correction that wisdom offers. Their disdain for instruction leads them away from the path of knowledge and ultimately to their downfall.
The Value of Divine Wisdom
Divine wisdom, as revealed through the scriptures, is invaluable. It transcends the temporal and touches the eternal, offering insights that are not bound by time or culture. The wisdom that begins with the fear of the LORD is enduring, leading to a life marked by understanding, righteousness, and peace.
In conclusion-
Proverbs 1:7 encapsulates the essence of Biblical wisdom. It teaches us that the fear of the LORD is not only the beginning of knowledge, but also the foundation upon which a meaningful life is built.
“Dear Father God, I come before You in reverence and humility, acknowledging Your infinite wisdom and majesty. I thank You for the gift of Your Word, which lights my path and guides all of my steps daily. Instill in me and your children a fear of the LORD, that is pure, leading to the knowledge and understanding that You desire for me/us. Help me/us to be seekers of Your wisdom, to cherish Your instruction, and to walk in the ways of righteousness. May my life reflect Your love and grace, and may I serve as a beacon of Your light in the darkness. I ask this in the precious name of Jesus, Amen.”
