The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
for attaining wisdom and discipline…
Proverbs 1:1-2a

King Solomon, the writer of Proverbs*, introduces himself in chapter one, verse one and immediately provides his purpose in writing: He wants to help the reader gain wisdom and discipline. There is more to the list, of course, but this first goal summarizes the overarching theme of the book very well.

Wisdom and discipline.

Let those two percolate for a bit. Wisdom seems to be the knowledge of what is right, while discipline seems to be actually doing what is right. As women of God, we must endeavor to not only know, but to do.

The knowing part is virtually impossible apart from the Word of God. We may pick up bits of knowledge or sage sayings here and there, but absolute truth that triumphs through time, government regimes, political thoughts, and charismatic leaders can only be found in God’s Word. How blessed we are to live in a time and place in history that allows us the privilege of owning our very own Bible and having the ability to read it. There are those who long for this gift we often leave unopened.

We choose to starve ourselves spiritually, when a feast is readily available.

The knowing then brings the accountability of doing. Our fleshly nature can be very troublesome on this point. I know I’m prone to laziness, selfishness, pride … and these often interfere with living out the wisdom God provides. But I praise God, as the old country preacher used to say, “I ain’t what I used to be!” I would add, “I’m not yet what I’m gonna be either!” (Or, for those who prefer a more sophisticated version, “I’m not what I once was, and I’m not yet what I will become.”)

Our transformation as women of God is day-by-day, even moment-by-moment. Growth happens slowly and sometimes painfully, but if the Holy Spirit dwells in us, He will prompt and prod, push and pull to move us forward spiritually. I believe God loves us just as we are, but also loves us too much to leave us this way. And Proverbs can help in this refinement of our souls. It offers timeless truth that, when applied, will bring changes to our hearts and minds.

Our transformation as women of God is day-by-day, even moment-by-moment. Growth happens slowly and sometimes painfully, but if the Holy Spirit dwells in us, He will prompt and prod, push and pull to move us forward spiritually. Click To Tweet

As we read through the book of Proverbs together this month, will you ask God to open your eyes to see truth – to see and take hold of wisdom, and then give you the courage to walk it out through disciplined living?

Are you ready to be transformed by attaining wisdom and discipline?

 

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* Later passages reveal other contributors besides Solomon.