Proverbs 4:1-9
Q.1. How did Solomon learn the importance of training his children? What are the rewards promised to those who heed instruction? What place should we give to wisdom and understanding? – (Prov.4:1-9)
Solomon was born into a very divided family that included David’s eight wives, nineteen named sons, and many daughters … plus the sons and daughters of David’s concubines (1 Chron.3:1-9). Nevertheless, David and Bathsheba passed on many valuable lessons to their son, Solomon. Solomon acknowledged this – 3 When I was a son to my father, tender and the only son in the sight of my mother, 4 Then he taught me and said to me, “Let your heart hold fast my words; Keep my commandments and live (Prov.4:3-4). It is one thing to hear an instruction. However, we must pay close attention, in order to gain understanding and grow in wisdom (Prov.4:1). Consequently, Solomon urged his son to make wisdom his goal – Do not forget nor turn away from the words of my mouth … “The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; And with all your acquiring, get understanding (Prov.4:5 c.f. Prov.4:7). It pays to stop and consider God’s Word, and to commit to seeing life from God’s point of view. If we do this, wisdom –will guard you … and – watch over you … “Prize her, and she will exalt you; She will honour you if you embrace her (Prov.4:6 & 8).