Introduction: Our text this evening is Proverbs 4:5. Here, Solomon quotes from his father, David, to his own son. David urged Solomon to “Get wisdom!” God possessed wisdom before creation. It is part of His eternal nature. With His wisdom, God designed and created all the complexities found in our universe. Because of His wisdom, God never makes a mistake or wrong move. God offers to share His wisdom with us. Wisdom is the God-given ability to make right choices. Wisdom is God-given prudence or skill; it is a practical understanding of matters relating to this life.
The book of Proverbs speaks of wisdom or wise in every chapter of the book. Thus, Proverbs is a book of wisdom. God’s wisdom fills its pages and is available for our taking if we will meet His requirements.
Transition: This evening, we are going to examine verses in Proverbs that answer two key questions on the topic of wisdom. I urge you to write this research in your Bible or in your Bible app so that you can refer to it in the future. I need wisdom and so do you!
1. How do we get wisdom?
a. The book of Proverbs teaches it, Proverbs 1:2.
b. We must desire it earnestly, Proverbs 2:2; 18:1.
c. The Lord gives it, Proverbs 2:6.
d. Parents are to live it and teach it to their children, Proverbs 3:21; 4:11; 5:1; 5:7. (This is a fearful and daunting task.)
e. Love her, Proverbs 7:4.
f. Answer her call in the Scriptures (especially Proverbs), Proverbs 8:1 and following.
g. It begins when we fear the Lord, Proverbs 9:10; 15:33. Ps 111.10
h. Humility enables us to receive it, Proverbs 11:2.
i. We get it by humbly seeking wise counsel, Proverbs 13:10.
j. We gain it from a parent’s rod and reproof, Proverbs 29:15.
2. What are the Benefits of Wisdom?
a. She is usually accompanied by understanding, Proverbs 1:7; 4:7; 7:4; 9:10; 10:23; 14:33; 16:16; 23:23, etc.).
b. It will make you discerning, Proverbs 2:7-9.
c. It will preserve you and deliver you from evil men, Proverbs 2:10-12.
d. It will deliver you from immoral women, Proverbs 2:16.
e. It results in happiness, Proverbs 3:13.
f. Wisdom gives life, grace, a safe walk, no stumbling, removes fear, makes sleep sweet, Proverbs 3:22-26.
g. She will preserve those who do not forsake her and keep those who love her, Proverbs 4:6.
h. It is the number one thing God wants me to get, Proverbs 4:7.
i. If we exalt wisdom, she will promote us; she will bring us honour if we embrace her, Proverbs 4:8.
j. She will give us a wreath of grace and a crown of glory, Proverbs 4:9.
k. Heeding wisdom will give discretion and guard our lips, Proverbs 5:1-2.
l. Wisdom is better than earthly riches, Proverbs 8:11; 16:16.
m. She accompanies other needed virtues, Proverbs 8:12, 14.
n. It helps with relationships, Proverbs 11:12.
o. A person who loves wisdom, loves his own soul, Proverbs 19:8.
p. No wisdom trumps God’s wisdom, Proverbs 21:30.
q. Wisdom enables you to build your house (family), Proverbs 24:3.
r. Loving wisdom will cause your father to rejoice, Proverbs 29:3.
Conclusion: The Psalmist’s prayer in Psalms 90:12, is a very fitting conclusion to our study this evening. “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.“
