The Bible says King Solomon, the writer of Proverbs, was the wisest King who ever lived. Where did Solomon get his wisdom? 1 Kings 3:3 says, “Solomon showed his love for the LORD by walking according to the instructions given him by his father David.” However, the wisdom found in Proverbs is far deeper than what Solomon learned from his father King David. In 1 Kings 3:4-15 God appears to Solomon in a dream and tells Solomon he can have anything he asks for. Solomon did not ask for wealth, fame, or power. He asked God to give him a wise and discerning heart. God granted Solomon’s request and went even beyond, giving him great wisdom as well as great wealth and honor. Solomon is commended for practicing the ways of his father, but his relationship with God was the ultimate source of his wisdom. His greatest advice may be found in the first 7 verses of chapter 1, culminating with verse 7: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.” John Wesley described the fear of the Lord as, “a tender, childlike reverence for God that produces obedience and love.” Wisdom begins when we draw near to God. Fear (tender, childlike reverence) of God is our starting point.

1. Wisdom comes from both learning from God (through his word) and being in relationship with God. Have you considered how fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge?

2. As you read Proverbs 1 what verses jumped out to you?