Hobart Herd Devotional – Proverbs 9 – 4-9-20
The word picture given us in chapter 9 is that Wisdom is like a new home that has been built, with seven beautiful pillars. Most likely 7 represents the perfect number and shows the beauty and perfection that has gone into this home wisdom. Whenever there is a new home built, there is always the celebration with the best foods, and mixed wine, with everyone invited. What a wonderful celebration with all invited to leave their simple ways and join in the feast of life, full of wisdom, discretion and insight. (verses 1-6) The contrast is found in verses 13-18 where the woman of folly is described. She is loud, seductive, knows nothing and waits at her door trying to draw people into her foolish ways of destruction.
In verse 7-12 we find the description of those that receive and accept the invitation of wisdom. The verses that stood out to me were verses 9-10. “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning. 10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” I am reminded that many times when someone tries to rebuke or correct me with words of wisdom, I usually become irritated and annoyed, and that is on my good days. Many times, I become resentful and angry at correction and in rebellion hate and turn away from wisdom. That is the description of a foolish scoffer who abuses, injures and hates those who correct and reprove. (verses 7-8)
I remember a story from my childhood when I became very angry with my Grandpa Morris for not giving me a glass of apple juice. I could see the gallon jug with a picture of an apple on the front and knew that he had lots even though he claimed he was out of apple juice. I pointed at the gallon jar and demanded some juice. My wise Grandpa said if he gave it to me, I had to drink it. I quickly agreed and he poured me a glass. I quickly started drinking only to immediately start spitting it out. You know what happened don’t you. It was Apple Cider Vinegar. I had to finish the small glass and I quickly learned a valuable lesson that what I could see on the outside, was not always what was on the inside.
Father, thank you that You are the God of all wisdom. Many times, I am tricked by what I see from my point of view and fail to see through the Wisdom of Your Word the truth. Help me to be open and accepting of the rebuke and reproof you bring into my life to correct my wrong thinking and actions. Forgive me for my rebellious attitudes and actions that refuse Your loving correction. May I in reverent fear of Who You are, begin to gain Your wisdom by listening and obeying Your instruction. I want Your wisdom, discretion and insight to guide my heart, mind and steps. In Jesus name, Amen. Pastor Rob