Proverbs 9:1-9
Q.1. What appeal does wisdom make to the naïve and inexperienced? How does wisdom benefit us? What attitude should we cultivate to wisdom? – (Prov.9:1-6)
Solomon likened wisdom to building and adorning a house that is inviting and prepared for feasting. The implied contrast is a house built by foolishness, that is bare and uninviting (Prov.9:1-2) Wisdom calls out, even through inexperienced messengers (maidens), to the naïve, simple, and inexperienced – ‘Let him turn in here to eat and drink at my table’ (Prov.9:3-5). Under the protection of wisdom, we turn away from empty pursuits that take us away from the Lord. It helps us to see life from God’s point of view, and feed on that which satisfies (Prov.9:6).
Q.2. How can we tell the difference between the righteous and a scoffer? What makes it difficult to help the ungodly? How do the godly respond? – (Prov.9:7-9)
The righteous value the instruction of the wise and learn from their own mistakes. Solomon encouraged us to invest in those who want wisdom. He observed – 7 He who corrects a scoffer gets dishonor for himself, and he who reproves a wicked man gets insults for himself. 8 Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you, Reprove a wise man and he will love you (Prov.9:7-8). We must love wisdom, in order to increase in wisdom. The scoffer rejects good advice, whereas a righteous person embraces the experiences of life, and interprets them in the light of God and eternity.