True wisdom is reflected in how we live (vv. 2–3)
Wisdom should affect our behavior, for wisdom is not wisdom unless it is lived out.  We can memorize the entire book of Proverbs, but unless that message changes the way we live, then it would be a useless academic exercise (and a big waste of time)!  Wisdom should also affect our character.  Wisdom should change the way we live our lives and should impact the way we view the world and treat the people around us.

True wisdom is necessary for all (vv. 4–6)
Wisdom is necessary for the young, the immature, and those who lack discretion.  This is not a negative idea.  Instead, it is simply a reality that, if accepted, would help many of us grow.  Furthermore, wisdom is necessary for those who consider themselves wise.  We are never too old and we will never have enough wisdom to be able to say “I’ve learned all I need to know.”  (No one likes a “know it all.”)  We demonstrate wisdom by acknowledging that we still have more to learn.

True wisdom is based upon a proper understanding of God (v. 7)
The foundation, the beginning, and the “launching pad” for true wisdom is a proper understanding of God.  To “fear the Lord” is to have a proper attitude of God and a proper attitude of your relationship to him.  In 2 Samuel 6, God strikes a man dead because the man reached out and touched the ark (the place of God’s presence) when the oxen pulling the ark stumbled.  I believe this man’s intentions were pure: he wanted to ensure the ark didn’t fall.  However, God struck him dead anyway.  The text tells us that because of this, David feared the Lord.  David, and the nation of Israel, needed a reminder that God is not like us. David’s attitude was corrected as he was reminded that God is set apart; he is holy.  I like to refer to this as God’s “otherness.”  God forbid that he becomes too familiar to us that we forget about his “otherness.”  God forbid we lose our sense of awe and wonder at who he is.

Where is true wisdom found?  True wisdom is found in a proper understanding of God.  This week join me in praying, “God, you are not like me.  You are holy and I need your wisdom.”

Discussion Questions

• Does your behavior demonstrate you have found true wisdom?
• Does your attitude toward guidance demonstrate you have found true wisdom?
• How do you view God?  Is he still mysterious and “other” to you?
• How does a proper view of God help us to gain true wisdom?

On Wednesday nights from 7:00–8:30 PM, we have our Senior High Youth gathering in the GYM.  This meeting includes plenty of “chill” time, corporate worship led by our student worship team and interns, and a large group teaching session.  This Fall our series is on the book of Proverbs.

As part of our efforts to partner with you in ministry to your children, I want to make available resources that will help you stay connected with what our Senior High ministry is doing.  Each week, we will be posting a short summary of the Wednesday evening session.  These posts will be titled “High School Connection.”  Each post will include a review of our lesson as well as suggested discussion questions to help you follow up with your high school students.  I hope this provides a helpful resource for your family.

If you are interested in participating in a K-Group, there are sign-up sheets in the foyer or you can contact Brenna at 692-4251.

PDF Outline: Download

PDF Outline: Download

PDF Outline: Download