February 24 lesson

The Riches of Wisdom

Text: Proverbs 19

Introduction: When we think of wealth and riches, we always think monetarily. In this chapter, Solomon speaks of the rich and poor as it relates to the spiritual life. True wealth can only be found in living life using the wisdom of God.

Body:

The Riches of Obtained Truth (v 1-12)

*It is better to be a poor, honest man than a rich, dishonest fool. (v 1-3) You have heard the statement, “Honesty is the best policy” but I believe that statement does not take it far enough. “Honesty is the ONLY policy.” Truth and integrity are worth more than the amount in a bank account. No matter what this money-hungry world may say, the truth will continue to prevail.

*It is better to make friends with a faithful poor person than the disloyal rich person. (v 4-9) Wealthy people seem to have many friends. People want to be around them as long as they are paying for everything. The poor person, on the other hand, is often disliked by his friends. Many people do not understand the value of a loyal friend.

*It is better to gain the respect of rulers by honest means than through impressing them with riches. (v 10-12) Impress the “princes” with solid hard work.

The Riches of an Obedient Family (v 13-29)

*A good wife in a family is a gift from the Lord. (v 13-14) Prudent means “one using good judgment.” What a blessing it is to have a wife that is prudent. On the other hand, a contentious wife is a curse.

*A good son in the family will have had proper discipline. (v 18-29) Every child is born with a sinful, rebellious nature and does not desire to be obedient. Therefore it is the responsibility of the parent to train that child according to the Word of God. Children should be warned of the life of the fool. It is up to the parent to train the child.

Conclusion: Let’s get our mind off of monetary riches, and let’s get our minds on the riches of God. These riches can be found only in obeying God’s word.

February 17 lesson

The Enemy of Wisdom

Text: Proverbs 18

Introduction: So far in our study of wisdom, we have seen the wonderful, positive things that wisdom brings into the world. God desires for all of us to possess this wisdom. However, wisdom has its enemies. These enemies do everything they can to keep the Christian from Godly wisdom. Notice the references using “wicked” and the “fool.”

Body:

The Viciousness of the Enemy of Wisdom (v 1-9)

*The enemy of wisdom uses self-centeredness to lure men away from wisdom. (v 2) The fool cares nothing for understanding but only looks to take care of his own heart. So selfishness is an enemy of wisdom.

*The enemy of wisdom uses his mouth to defeat the wisdom of God. (v 6-8) The fool has an undisciplined tongue. He would rather argue (enter into contention) against Godly wisdom than to accept it. The fool will also tell hurtful lies.

*The enemy of wisdom is a lazy person. (v 9) This slothful person that does not work hard hates the wisdom of God. It makes him look bad.

The Victory Over the Enemy of Wisdom (v 10-24)

Now that we know who the enemy of wisdom is, we can develop a plan to defeat the enemy.

*Victory over the enemy of wisdom can be had by humbly focusing on God. (v 10-17) Notice verse 14: A wise man’s spirit is strong during a time of sickness. We wonder how people keep a good spirit when things go wrong….it is because of the use of wisdom.

*Victory over the enemy of wisdom can be obtained by following the Lord in all areas of life. (v 18-24) In verse 19, we learn how to deal with an offended brother. In verse 21, we learn of the severity of the tongue. Verse 22 tells us of the joy of marriage. Verse 24 tells us of the importance of friendship…..most of all the friendship with the Lord.

Conclusion: Let’s know who our enemy is. Now we can combat the wicked and the fool.

February 10 lesson

The Person of Wisdom

Text: Proverbs 17

Introduction: As we progress in Proverbs, we will notice that Solomon begins to address some more serious and detailed issues. All of these will help his son become a man. This chapter will deal with the person of wisdom or the wise person.

Body:

The Conditioning of the Wise Person (v 1-16)

*The wise person will be conditioned by the trials God allows him to go through. (v 1-5) Notice some of these trials:
*A dry morsel and quietness (v 1) This would suggest a time without sufficient food. The wise man will allow a time like this to condition him.
*A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips. (v 4) The wise man will not allow the wicked to influence him with their words.
*Whoso mocketh the poor (v 5) The wise person will see how the fool treats the poor, and will decide not to be a respecter of persons.

*The wise person will be conditioned by the knowledge that future generations are depending on him. (v 6)
The wise person always lives his life knowing that his children will reap what he has sown. If we really understood that, I believe we would live our life differently.

*The wise person will admit when he is wrong. (v 10-11)
This will help your relationship more than anything….the ability to admit when wrong.

The Characteristics of the Wise Person (v 17-28)

*The wise person will be loyal to his friends. (v 17-18) Even during adversity, a friend is expected to be there. Never leave a friend….especially in the time of need. That is when your friendship is truly displayed.

*The wise person is a joy to be around. (v 22) This wise person is a medicine to those around them. Do people really enjoy being around you? What a great way to spread the love of God.