Proverbs 1:1-6 - The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel: To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth—Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance, to understand a proverb and a saying, the words of the wise and their riddles.

This passage from Proverbs introduces the book and establishes that wisdom comes from fearing the Lord. The proverbs of Solomon were intended to teach wisdom and discipline. True knowledge and understanding come from fearing God, not from despising instruction. A father exhorts his son to listen to correction from his parents and resist the temptation to follow sinners. Parents provide guidance that leads to honor, but sinners lead only to harm.

In this introduction to the book of Proverbs, Solomon establishes that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. While the world may try to convince us that wisdom comes from experience or education alone, Scripture tells us that true understanding comes from humbling ourselves before God. The proverbs that follow are meant to instruct us in righteousness and justice so that we can live well-pleasing lives to the Lord. Yet we must first receive correction and submit to God's ways, not following the paths of sinners that lead to destruction. May we have ears to hear the wisdom found in God's word, given to guide our steps and crown us with His favor. When we fear God above all else, He grants us insight to navigate this life well.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of your word and the wisdom found in the book of Proverbs. Help me to receive correction with humility and submit my life fully to your ways. Give me discernment to avoid the temptation to follow the crowds down sinful paths. May I daily seek your face in prayer and study, so that the fear of the Lord may be upon me. Fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live righteously and bring honor to your name. In Jesus' name, Amen.