7.3 Proverbs 1-4

Name – Kyle Perkins

7.3.2020

Proverbs 1-4

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:  

Proverbs 1 – The first chapter discusses the consequences of those who pursue evil desires and who refrain from acquiring wisdom. Wisdom is depicted as an individual, and at the end of the chapter, it is stated that those who ignore Wisdom’s advice will also be ignored and will fall to their own self-destruction.  

Proverbs 2 – Wisdom is found when an individual fears God. Those who follow wisdom will be blessed and be kept from the wickedness of sin. 

Proverbs 3 – The benefits of wisdom, and its value, is described in more detail. Wisdom is defined as treasure and a tool that God has used from the very beginning. Instructions are also given to help the reader use wisdom in everyday life. 

Proverbs 4 – This chapter begins by telling the reader to honor wisdom like honoring a woman. As a result, the reader will be protected by the ways of the wicked and find straight paths.  

What is one key verse?

‘Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the lord and shun evil.” – Proverbs 3:3-7 NIV

These verses remind me of how often I try to control everything going on in my life. I have to be fully surrendered to what God has in store for me, even if I do not understand why it may be happening. My own emotions or thoughts can sometimes feel like truth. However, those thoughts or emotions might not always align with God’s plan for my life. It is important that the decisions I make are parallel to what God wants, even if it does not seem right at the time. 

How does what you read change your vision of God?

From reading these chapters, I recognize that God only wants what is best for His children. God uses warning signs to protect His readers from what Satan and the world has to offer. God does not force us to obey him. He allows us to choose how we live our lives, but He clearly displays the positive and negative outcomes of our decisions. 

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

These chapters are a helpful reminder that our natural disposition is to rely on what we know or believe to be true. I think most of the verses seem like common sense, as it relates to how we should live our lives, but it is easier said than done. I have often seen how difficult it can be for myself and others to walk in such a way that fears God.  

How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?)

The steps or decisions I make cannot come from what I believe to be true in my own heart. Proverbs 4:23 states we must guard our hearts “for it is the wellspring of life.” Our hearts and minds are exposed to so many different factors in this world. Sometimes what seems correct might actually be far from the truth, and vice versa. Therefore, my thoughts and feelings must find foundation first in some essential factors that God gives us. We must find insight from scripture, fasting, persistent prayer, and from the advice of other individuals who are also practicing the same. 

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? (What made you think about Jesus?)

I think Proverbs 3:3-7 describes the life Jesus lived in the gospels. He was faithful in all circumstances, he won the favor of both man and God, and continually turned to God for insight. It was evident that Jesus knew scripture well and was always taking time to be alone so he could pray to the Father. If we want to acquire wisdom we must imitate Jesus’ example and follow the warnings Solomon provides us with.