Why Should We Live by God’s Wisdom? – Proverbs 8:1-21,32-36
8 Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? (2) On the heights along the way, where the paths intersect, she takes her stand. (3) Beside the gates leading into the city, at the entrance ways, she cries aloud, (4) To you, O men, I call out; I speak to all mankind. (5) You who are naïve, gain an understanding of prudence. You who are fools, gain an understanding heart. (6) Listen, for I will speak of noble things; I open my lips to speak what is right. (7) My mouth will utter truth; and wickedness is detestable to my lips. (8) All the words of my mouth are spoken in righteousness, there is nothing crooked or perverse in them. (9) All my words are clear to him who understands, they are right to those who have found knowledge. (10) Receive my instruction rather than silver; receive knowledge rather than choice gold; (11) for wisdom is better than rubies, and whatever may be desired cannot compare to it.
(12) I, wisdom, dwell with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion. (13) The fear of Jehovah includes the hating of evil; I hate pride and arrogance, and evil conduct and the mouth that speaks perversity. (14) Counsel and sound judgment belong to me; I am understanding; I have power. (15) By me kings reign and rulers issue just decrees. (16) By me princes govern, as well as nobles and all the judges of the earth. (17) I love those who love me, and those who diligently seek me shall find me. (18) Riches and honor are with me, durable wealth and righteousness. (19) My fruit is better than gold, indeed, better than fine gold; and what I yield is better than choice silver. (20) I walk in the way of righteousness, in the center of the paths of justice, (21) so that I may cause those who love me to inherit riches—that I may fill their treasuries… (32) Now then, my sons, listen to me; for blessed are those who keep my ways. (33) Heed instruction and so be wise; do not refuse it. (34) Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at my doorway; (35) for whoever finds me finds life, and obtains favor from Jehovah. (36) But whoever sins against me does harm to his own soul; all who hate me love death.
Now proceed to the next section of this study, entitled, Exploring the Passage.
