Proverbs 1 and 2 introduce us to the gift of wisdom God gave Solomon. He tells us the purpose of the book in the first few chapters: “For learning about wisdom and instruction, for understanding words of insight,for gaining instruction in wise dealing, righteousness, justice, and equity; to teach shrewdness to the simple, knowledge and prudence to the young—Let the wise also hear and gain in learning, and the discerning acquire skill,to understand a proverb and a figure, the words of the wise and their riddles.” This book of proverbs promises to give everyone the tools necessary to live successfully in the world.

The first insight is that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. This is similar to the teaching we received in the book of Job. A main component to fear of the Lord is staying away from the counsel of sinners. It will only lead to trouble.

Wisdom is introduced as a female character, who calls out to the innocent and encourages them to follow her instead of sinners. When they refuse Wisdom turns away and leaves them to the consequences of their foolish decisions.

Solomon encourages the reader to treasure his commandments and listen to wisdom. It should be sought like a treasure and in it one will find the fear of the Lord and the knowledge of God. Wisdom comes from God alone and God is the one who helps us understand righteousness, justice and equity. Wisdom will keep us from following the wrong path.

Philippians 4 contains a great deal of wisdom from Paul. He insists that we stand firm in the Lord and not be distracted by anything that would turn our minds form Christ. When we rejoice in the Lord instead of other things we are able to live our lives in a more positive manner: we can show gentleness to others; trust in God to provide; look for the good in others and in every situation and as a result we will experience peace and contentment in any circumstance.