Proverbs 4:10-19
Q.1. What is the blessing of walking in wisdom and righteousness? Why did Solomon underscore the need for diligence? – (Prov.4:10-13)
Kings were commanded to write out, and to regularly read the Scriptures (Dt.17:18-20). Solomon showed that he was aware of the Ten Commandments, when he reminded his son – Hear, my son, and accept my sayings and the years of your life will be many (Prov.4:10 c.f. Exo.20:12; Dt.5:16). Wisdom and understanding are more than just knowledge and experience. They are knowledge and experience from God’s point of view as revealed in the Scriptures (Prov.4:11). That is why we are to seek and follow the wisdom and instructions from those whom God has placed in authority over us – 10 … And the years of your life will be many … 12 When you walk, your steps will not be impeded; and if you run, you will not stumble. 13 … Guard her, for she is your life (Prov.4:10, 12-13). We need to have a lifelong commitment to seek and love God’s wisdom as found in His Word. (Prov.4:13).
Q.2. How did Solomon describe the wicked? Where do the wicked end up? What was promised to the one who pursues the right path? – (Prov.4:14-19)
Solomon had seen it all and was able to describe the motivations and actions of the wicked. He warned his son to avoid evil men and to turn from their sinful schemes – 14 Do not enter the path of the wicked and do not proceed in the way of evil men. 15 Avoid it, do not pass by it; Turn away from it and pass on. 16 For they cannot sleep unless they do evil; And they are robbed of sleep unless they make someone stumble. For they eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of violence (Prov.4:14-17). The wicked end up stumbling in the darkness, in confusion and pain (Prov.4:19). By contrast – the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full day (Prov.4:18). We are much more confident to run if we are in the light of the day.