Monday, March 3, 2014

“SIH’s Think On These Things: Proverbs 22:20-21”


He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7)

Increasing Life’s Joy: Understanding The Purpose Of Proverbs 22:20-21
20) Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge,
21) That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?

Solomon looks at another factor, that when understood, will increase our joy, understanding the purpose of Proverbs.  When we understand the purpose of Proverbs, we will understand the importance of God’s Word for our lives and be motivated to apply the Word to our lives which will increase our joy and peace…


EXPOSITION:

20) Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge,
Solomon explains to us the characteristics of the book of Proverbs…

1.  Solomon describes the Proverbs as “excellent things”.  This title is teaching us that the Proverbs, just like all of God’s Word, is of the “highest rank”.  This means it holds the highest authority and the highest position of importance for each one of us.  
2.  God’s Word is the pinnacle of “counsel” (advice and planning) – used for practical living
3.  God’s Word is the ultimate source for “knowledge” (perception and receipt of truths) – to learn doctrinal truths

The Bible is the ultimate source for truth and the practical application of that truth.  It proceeds from the very mouth of the Lord, hence, making it of highest authority and importance for us all

All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
(2 Timothy 3:16-17)



21) That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?
Solomon now describes the motivation in his heart for his writing of the Proverbs…

1. that we would recognize and accept after a careful examination, excluding all doubt, the truths of God.
2. that we might give the truthful, Godly answer to those who send inquiries to us.

Solomon’s motive was to prepare us for active service to the Lord.  He would do this by helping us to recognize, beyond doubt, the truths of God and then help us to share these truths in a God pleasing way, to those who mke inquiry to us.

But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy [are ye]: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and [be] ready always to [give] an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:  Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.  (1 Peter 3:14-16)




SUMMARY:

God’s Word is the ultimate source of truth and authoritative direction for our lives.  As such we are to share the truths of the Word with others by applying them to our lives and giving them God pleasing answers to the questions they may ask of us.  

When we understand the great importance of the Word of God and the need to apply it to our lives and declare it to others, we will find great joy because we will be fulfilling our purpose for life.

By God’s grace, let us all study these proverbs diligently, giving them the value that they deserve.

May the Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”.



No comments:

Post a Comment