In Proverbs 1 you will find there are two kinds of people: the Wise and the Fool. Proverbs 1:5 says, “the wise increase in learning” and 1:7 says, “fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

Proverbs helps us understand the connection between fearing God and gaining knowledge/instruction. When Proverbs uses the word “fear” it is talking about something that takes up our time; something that consumes our thoughts; something that we look to for guidance; something that leaves us in awe. When we fear God, serving Him takes up our time, learning about Him consumes our thoughts, and gaining wisdom from Him offers us guidance.

The fool, however, refuses to fear God because they hate the knowledge that comes from God. Proverbs 1:29 says, “because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the Lord…they eat the fruit of their way and have their fill of their own devices.” Our news feeds are full of stories of people who have had their full of their own devices. Chaos, dissention, pain, and strife are some examples of the fruit of living without a fear of God. Have you ever tasted that kind of fruit? I have and it was awful.

This is what makes the ending of Proverbs 1 so refreshing. It says “whoever listens to [God] will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster.” The month of November gives us the opportunity to be thankful. We can start by thanking God for offering us His wisdom and guidance so that we don’t have to live like fools.

Put it in Action:

1. Prov. 1:5 says, “Let the wise hear and increase in learning and the one who understands obtain guidance.” God promises to give us wisdom when we ask. In what area do you need wisdom today?
2. When you come across a fool today, pray for them.

-Chad