Proverbs 1:1

The book of Proverbs gives us insights into so many different areas of life. The book gives us instruction on how to live our lives for God. Here is a proverb that gives us insight about the writing of the proverbs:

Proverbs 1:1 (ESV)

The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:

We might be tempted to pass over this proverb as not really a proverb.  It would be argued, quite successfully by some, that it is not.   It is simply an introduction to the proverbs giving us some biographical and historical accuracy.  However, it should be noted that God doesn't put anything in His Word that He doesn't want us to live and learn from.   This verse does tell us that Solomon is the source of these proverbs.  However, it also reveals to us a few truths we need to learn.  The first is that kings "to be" need to learn as much as others.  Solomon is commended by most for asking for wisdom when God gives him a chance to make his "wishes" come true.   Whereas most would have asked God for power and prestige and wealth, Solomon asked for Wisdom.  In Proverbs 4:4 Solomon will tell us the wisdom he is unfolding for us is from his dad.  In 31:1-4, if you believe "Lemuel" is actually also Solomon, simply by another name, he is teaching us what his mom taught him.   I believe when God gave Solomon wisdom it was not so much he poured previously unknown truth into his head, but rather opened his eyes to the truth he had been previously taught.   Like the Pharisees often blinded to the truth of the gospel, many have been given and see truth every day.   But, it is only through faith in Christ through the ministry of the Spirit that we can discern wisdom; or, as some say, use that truth in a way that shows wisdom.   In this first "proverb" we are seeing that not only does a king need wisdom but he attains it through the teaching of parents.  We are able to discern our parents teaching through the eyes of faith and that is what translates simple truth to practical wisdom.   We all know people who "know things."  They are truly smart.  But, they also, at times, show very little wisdom for this life.  They are often head smart and life dumb.  We know others, who through the Spirit, who are challenged in regard to knowledge but are wise beyond their years.   In this first proverb we have more than introductory lanquage.  We have the truth that "kings need wisdom to be taught to them" and that wisdom is "often taught through the parental line."   Embrace both wisdom and how we obtain it.  God doesn't pour things into our heads.  Through faith He opens our eyes to the things we are taught in His Word.