We live in the age of the DIY-er. Don't know how to do something? Google it! You can watch and learn how to do pretty much anything on YouTube. And there's probably an app for what you need.
It's amazing what you can learn without leaving your keyboard (or phone)!
We also live in an age of abundant advice—from philosophy to psychology—counsellors and amateur authorities abound, especially in blog-land. Oh yeah, and there's a fair bit of religious and political opinion available too!
But does all this lead to a fulfilled life, or just a life filled up?
Scripture
“Now, sons, listen to me. Blessed are those who follow my ways. Listen to discipline, and become wise. Do not leave my ways. [vss 32-33]
Blessed is the person who listens to me, watches at my door day after day, and waits by my doorposts. Whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord. Whoever sins against me harms himself. All those who hate me love death.” [vss 34-36]
Wisdom has built her house. She has carved out her seven pillars. She has prepared her meat. She has mixed her wine. She has set her table. She has sent out her servant girls. She calls from the highest places in the city, [vss 1-3]
“Whoever is gullible turn in here!” She says to a person without sense, “Come, eat my bread, and drink the wine I have mixed. Stop being gullible and live. Start traveling the road to understanding.” [vss 4-6]
(Proverbs 8:32-36; 9:1-6 GW) [Context– Proverbs 8 & 9]
Key phrase
Whoever finds me finds life...
Digging Deeper...
- What is the wise counsel given to "sons" [young people]? How is it both a caution and encouragement?
- How is a person to gain wisdom? What are seven specific ways given in this admonition?
- What reassuring promise is given? What is the contrasting warning?
- What is the picture of wisdom presented to us? What invitation is given?
- Who is this invitation extended to? How does it relate to the previous verses [8:32-36]?
Make it personal...
How is the wisdom of God different from that offered in philosophy?
Have you ever opened your heart, as well as your mind, to God's wisdom?
Have you received and acted upon "Wisdom's" invitation to life?
How has the wisdom of God become personal and beneficial to you?
Reflection...
As seen in the New Testament of the Bible, God makes Himself known and available to humanity. But God has always extended an invitation to come know Him and to gain true life.
In the book of Proverbs, wisdom is often portrayed as a woman—to personalize it. It's a way of life, not just something to know. This picture of a banquet is to remind us how personal and approachable God is to anyone who will respond to His invitation to life.