By Brenda Cannon Henley
Choosing to name this study, WOW, an acronym for Words of Wisdom is the very best clue as to what is covered in these articles. The 31 chapters, one for each day of the month, is a wonderful way to gain an easy, personal grasp of the teachings of this important book of Scripture. Reading the Word of God faithfully each day is somewhat like a compass for my life. I personally prefer morning devotions because spending quiet time early in the morning, when I am alert and fresh, has always worked best for me. I can reflect all day on what I read, and hopefully, put the truths into practice as I go through my busy day.

Good thing I am an early riser by nature because Dr. John R. Rice, for whom I worked at the Sword of the Lord for a number of years, required every employee to be in his place in the main auditorium at 7:00 AM each day, come rain, sleet, or snow for devotions together as a team.

I learned much of the Bible truth I know and teach from this giant of the faith, and from Dr. Curtis Hutson, my pastor and employer for 26 years. Both men loved the Book of Proverbs and taught daily principles often from these verses. The very best teaching I gleaned from these 31 chapters was from Dr. Al Byers, my Sunday school teacher who taught an in depth study. Dr. Byers opened with the following verse from Proverbs 4:7:

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” (KJV)

Proverbs was mainly written or compiled by wise Solomon, the son of David, King of Israel. The words were penned so that people may know skillful and godly wisdom and instruction, and be able to discern and comprehend the words of understanding and insight.

The goal of the teaching is found in Proverbs 1:2-4 and is that hearers and readers would know wisdom and instruction, perceive the words of understanding, to receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity. To give subtilty (cunning) to the simple, to the young man, knowledge and discretion (good judgment).

Dr. Rice wrote in his introduction to this mighty book, “Proverbs is wisdom literature – concise, very valuable, inspired counsel from which all people can benefit. These are a collection of sharp, ethical precepts about practical living.”

Guess what? They still work today.

The book can be outlined thusly:

1. To sons: 1:1 – 7:27

2. Wisdom: 8:1 – 9:18

3. Sins and their folly: 10:1 – 19:29

4. Warnings and counsel: 20:1 – 29:27

5. Agur’s Proverbs: 30:1-33

6. King Lemuel’s Proverbs: 31:1:31

Brenda Cannon Henley can be reached at 409 781 8788, or
[email protected]

[July-20-2021]