Proverbs 8

From instruction to wisdom speech beginning in chapter 8.

v. 1-11

Wisdom desires for humankind to hear it. And so she calls out, attempting to get us to pay attention. Where does this take place?

In public places that are isolated like the heights and the crossroads where there is the most foot traffic. The point with the inclusion of these various places is to point out that wisdom will find a way to reach the ear of any and all who will hear it. Well, what is that wisdom will say when we hear it?

She will address grown men and children alike. (v. 4)

She will address the needs of those who hear. Whether the need is prudence or sense, it can be found in wisdom. Those who are simple have not yet learned wisdom and the fool is in deep need of sense. If we look specifically at the fool, this is not a person who has not yet learned sense and wisdom. Proverbs 1:7 tells us that “fools despise wisdom and instruction.” So, these are the ones who have outright denied the attempt of wisdom to enter into our lives. The idea of sense is a changing of the mind here. (v. 5)

Listen to the moral quality of wisdom in verses 6-11: Noble, what is right, truth, righteous, straight,

v. 12-21

We have here a more proper introduction to wisdom in these verses. The things that wisdom promotes:prudence (crafty, managing resources well), knowledge, and discretion. The things that wisdom rejects: pride, arrogance, evil, perverted speech. (v. 13)

It is interesting that wisdom and fear of the Lord are placed side by side in these two verses. Solomon is drawing the two together at various points in the Proverbs and it is helpful to see just how much wisdom there is in a fear of the Lord.

Verses 14 through 16 make a point for anyone in leadership that wisdom is the way to go. There will be counsel, insight, justice.

In v. 17 through v. 21, we can see the benefits of wisdom. Wisdom loves those who love wisdom. The riches described in v. 18 are not just flash in the pan, get rich quick schemes. A yield of crop, righteousness, and lasting treasures.

We should lend wisdom our ear. We should seek it and look forward to the benefits.