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Today, as we begin our journey through the book of Proverbs, I want to start with an important caveat: Proverbs was never meant to be approached as a book of promises that guarantee our desired results. It was written to teach principles—how to think, speak, and live in a way that honors God. It shows us how life generally works, not how it will work in every situation.

If we camp out here too long without reading the rest of Scripture, we can start to believe that life is predictable—and become discouraged when it’s not. The rest of the Bible reminds us that life is not formulaic. It’s meant to be lived in ongoing trust and submission to God's sovereignty.

So, as we read over the next week or so, we’re not looking for steps that guarantee specific outcomes. We’re looking for principles that guide consistent, faithful living. We’re looking for wisdom that shapes a heart that fears the Lord—which, as Proverbs 9:10 tells us, is the beginning of wisdom.

Another point to keep in mind is the original context. Proverbs was written in a culture where sons were being prepared to lead their families and society. That’s why you hear, “my son,” so often. But wisdom is not limited to men. Wisdom cries out in the streets for all to hear. The truth of Proverbs 1:7, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,” is that it is for everyone.

In fact, Proverbs makes it clear that both parents are involved in shaping wisdom. Proverbs 1:8 tells us not to forsake a mother’s teaching. And beyond that, wisdom itself is personified as a woman, calling out publicly in chapter 1, verse 20,

“Wisdom shouts in the street, She lifts her voice in the square…”

So while the form of the teaching is culturally and gender-specific, the wisdom itself is universally applicable.

Now, while wisdom is available to all, there is a prerequisite—and this is the first important principle we need to take away in these opening chapters: wisdom must be received in humility, or it will be missed entirely.

We see this clearly in Proverbs 1:23,

“Turn to my reproof, Behold, I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you.”

That word “turn” speaks of repentance. It’s not until we respond to correction—until we’re willing to be redirected—that we begin to understand. That’s when wisdom is “poured out,” and clarity begins to come.

But if we resist—if we continue in our own way—the outcome is just as clear. Proverbs 1:32 says,

“For the waywardness of the naive will kill them, And the complacency of fools will destroy them.”

The “spirit” being poured out is a good thing—it’s God opening our eyes, softening our hearts, and bringing clarity to His truth in our lives. But it’s given to those who are willing to receive correction. Wisdom isn’t something God withholds from us; it’s something we often resist. And if we keep resisting it long enough, there comes a point where the consequences of that choice begin to take over.

So, as we enter into this week of reading through Proverbs, it’s important to revisit our commitment to humility and to embrace the moments when the Spirit shares specific knowledge that invites us to change.