PROVERBS
A proverb has been defined as a “short statement based on long experience.” The Hebrew word translated “proverb” means “to be like,” and many of the proverbs are contrasts or comparisons. The proverbs deal with the ethical and moral aspects of life. They are practical, not theoretical, and point the way to godly character and a fulfilled life.
The theme of Proverbs is wisdom, the right use of knowledge. This wisdom is more than an intellectual pursuit; it also involves devotion to the Lord. The wise person fears the Lord, trusts Him, and seeks to obey His will. The wisdom described in Proverbs is like a spiritual “sixth sense.” It enables you to evaluate circumstances and people and make the right decisions in life.
Since a proverb is only the statement of a general truth, it must not be taken for a divine promise. David and Jesus both pleased the Lord, but they still had enemies (Prov. 16:7); and more than one obedient child of God has died young (
These wise sayings are “distilled truth” made practical for daily living. You find in them principles, warnings, and counsels that really work when you fear the Lord and want to please Him. The book of Proverbs is not a do-it-yourself success kit for the greedy but a guidebook for the godly.
Most of the book was written by Solomon (1:1; see also
Proverbs covers a wide range of subjects, and the verses are not arranged in topical order. In our meditations, we will concentrate on a major emphasis in each chapter, and from time to time, we will bring together verses that relate to a common theme.