The Message of Proverbs is blunt and practical but also an inspirational list of life sayings on character and conduct.

Proverbs the best way to understand them, is they are there to stimulate, to provoke and to get you to think.

Most proverbs are intensely practical, but the Bible is a deeply practical book. God cares about the way we behave, the way we live our lives, our actions here on earth.

Proverbs teaches us to act justly, to keep our mouths from lying, to work hard, to avoid sinful relationships. Proverbs teaches about what it means to ‘Fear the Lord’, this is a ‘reverent’ fear, not an intimidating fear.

Proverbs covers a huge range of topics, but several themes recur. Also, certain stock ‘charters’ crop up regularly, such as the nagging woman, the idle man, the gossip and the dishonest tradesman.

Some of the main topics covered include;

Seek Wisdom; {example] Proverbs 2 verses 1 to 5.

Avoid bad companions;  Proverbs 1 verse 10 to 19.

Help the poor; {example} proverbs 3 verse 27 to 35.

Watch your language; Proverbs 26 verses 20 to 28.

Don’t be a sluggard; Proverbs 6 verses 6 to 11.

Don’t be foolish; Proverbs 5 verses 1 to 23.

The way to Wisdom; Proverbs 1 verses 1 to 9.

Getting us to think, is the inspiring message of Proverbs, something in this day and age, not many people do for themselves. They are happy to settle for the opinions of others.

Proverbs is a book to read in short sections, and meditate on. It is perfectly possible to dip into Proverbs at random and gain practical insight and encouragement.

Proverbs is a beautiful book about true wisdom, read it and enjoy. Read it and find true wisdom that will help us all in our journey through life.

God bless.

O F J.