Intro to Proverbs:

Proverbs is a collection of practical sayings and instructions written and collected mainly by Solomon. Proverbs are not promises of God, but rather sayings that are generally true. Some of the proverbs are reiterated in other parts of Scripture and therefore can lean into the realm of promises. For example: Proverbs 3:5-6 is a truth often repeated in Scripture that if we follow the Lord’s guidance we He will direct our paths. Proverbs uses a variety of literary tools to help us grasp the power of the wisdom it is trying to convey. Some of the tools are comparison, metaphors, allegories, simile, and imagery as well as others. Dr. Tom Constable summarized Proverbs as:

“I would summarize the message of Proverbs as follows: The person who learns the fear of God (i.e., to take God into consideration) in every sphere of life, will be successful, but those who disregard God will fail. Fearing God means taking God into account, being aware of His reality and presence, and making decisions in view of His existence and revelations.”

(https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf, 18.)

In our current world where wisdom seems to be a rare commodity, the book of Proverbs can be a powerful reminder of the wisdom God gives, if we will look to Him.

May 1: Proverbs 1

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. In verses 2-6, we see the purpose of the book of Proverbs written in an “If, then” statement. For example: As you read verses 2-4, start each “to” phrase with, “If you want to…”. As you read verses 5-6, start the section with the word, “Then.” If you want to obtain these things, what 3 things should you do (vv 5-6)? Next, in verse 7, we see the main point of the book of Proverbs, a contrast between the wise and the foolish. What is the first step for the wise and how are the foolish different? Ponder: Which one do you want to be? Consider turning verses 2-7 into a prayer to the Lord as you begin the reading of the book of Proverbs.
2. In verses 8-19, how should youth consider the instructions of their parents? What is the author assuming about the parents, if their child should listen to them? What instruction is given to the son in verses 10 & 15? How are the sinners described and what actions do they take? Verse 19 is the punch line, so to speak; what happens to the one who is “greedy for unjust gain?”
3. In verses 20-33, wisdom is personified as a woman who cries out for people to listen to her. Where does “woman wisdom” cry out? In verse 22, what three types of people does wisdom make her plea to? In verse 23, if we will turn to wisdom’s reproof, what will “she” do?
4. In verses 24-32, we see the results of not turning to wisdom. In verses 24-25, how does “woman wisdom” describe the contrast between what she has asked and how those without wisdom respond? In verses 26-28, how will wisdom respond when calamity strikes those without wisdom? In verses 29-32, why will wisdom respond this way? What will be the result for those turning away from wisdom? In verse 33, what will be the result for those who listen to wisdom?
5. Ponder: As we stated in the introduction, Proverbs is not a book of promises, but statements about life that are generally true. As you studied the difference between those who listen to wisdom and those who do not, how would you evaluate your level of listening? On a scale of 1-10, how often do you seek wisdom for the decisions you make, the actions you take, and interactions with people you encounter? How does this lead you to pray?

May 2: Proverbs 2

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Proverbs 2 begins with an If …then statement. In verse 1, the “if” statement begins with “receiving my words.” How is this “receiving” described in verses 1-4; is it simply reading or hearing, or something more? If we receive the word as described, then what will we find according to verse 5? Ponder: Look back at 1:7, how does this relate to this section? If we seek wisdom, are we to study the Bible as just an academic pursuit or a heart pursuit to know God more? Does wisdom come without the study of God’s word (explain your answer)?
2. In verses 6-8, who gives wisdom? How is it given? What kind of protection is mentioned and where does it come from? Ponder: if this is true, do you need a seminary degree to be wise, knowledgable, and have understanding? How does this lead you to pray?
3. In verses 9-11, what will be the blessings for those who gain wisdom, knowledge, and understanding from the Lord? In verses 12-15 it states you will be delivered from evil men and in verses 16-19 it states you will be delivered from the forbidden woman. How are they each described? Take note of the differences in their deceptive speech and how their paths are described?
4. In verses 20-21 the proverb ends with a summary of blessing and warning. How will you walk if you seek the wisdom from the Lord? Compare and contrast those who get to inhabit the land with those who are rooted out of the land.
5. Ponder: How would you summarize this chapter, what main point is it trying to make? My mind goes to Matthew 6:33. What will you seek and how diligently will you seek it? How does this lead you to pray?

May 3: Proverbs 3

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. This chapter will focus on the personal blessings of choosing to follow wisdom. As you read verses 1-12 look for the call to action followed by the result. Here is a chart to help you organize your thoughts. As we stated in the intro for Proverbs, most proverbs are a statement that is generally true, not a promise. However, we do see a few promises in Proverbs and 3:5-6 is one of them. We know this is a promise because we the concept of trusting in the Lord to guide us stated many other places in Scripture: John 16:13; James 1:5-6; Romans 12:1-2; and Philippians 2: 13 just to list a few. Ponder: of the action/result statements in this section, which one most impacts you today? How does this lead you to pray?

2. In verses 13-18, what are the blessings of wisdom and understanding? In verses 19-20, we get just a taste of the wisdom of the Lord. What does this say of His power?
3. In verses 21-24, if we do not lose sight of sound wisdom and discretion, what will be the result?
4. In verses 25-26, we see a contrast from the wise in verses 21-24. Rather than security and sweet sleep we see terror. When we see this sudden ruin of the wicked, where do we find our security? In verses 27-31, we see the instructions for how to walk with wisdom as our guide. Read these slowly and ask the Lord to reveal any area of your life where you have not shown the wisdom described. How does this lead you to pray?
5. In verses 32-35, the word “but” is used 4 times. Whenever you see the word “but” in Scripture, pay attention! What are the specific contrasts described in these verses and what are the blessings for those who seek the Lord?
6. Ponder: Looking back at verses 3-6, in what areas of your life are you wise in your own eyes, leaning on your own understanding? How can you turn this chapter into a prayer (maybe a specific verse or verses that stood out to you), asking the Lord to grow your wisdom in any area you are lacking?

May 4: Proverbs 4

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. This chapter has three discourses. In the first discourse, verses 1-9, what is the father encouraging the son to get? Who taught the father? How do we get the beautiful crown of wisdom? Ponder: When you are a grandfather, grandmother, older aunt or uncle, what would you like the younger generations to say of you? How are you living today so that they would speak of your wisdom? How does this lead you to pray?
2. The second discourse is found in verses 10-19. Is seeking wisdom and instruction a one-time action? Explain your answer. How does this section compare and contrast the way of the righteous versus the way of the wicked? Ponder: the word stumble appears twice in this section. How can one avoid stumbling and how does one guarantee stumbling? How does this lead you to pray?
3. The third discourse is found in verses 20-27. In verse 21, what 2 places is wisdom and instruction to be kept? What is to be kept with all diligence and why? If wisdom is leading us, how will it impact the way we speak, look, walk, and what will we avoid? Ponder: If something is before my eyes, is it easy to ignore? The heart represents the emotional center of a person, their will. Our culture tends to elevate emotions and feelings as the core of who we are. If it feels good, do it. If you feel a certain way, you are what you feel. If you feel it’s correct, it’s “your truth.” How would this section challenge this line of thinking? What would wisdom say? How does this lead you to pray for yourself and others?

May 5: Proverbs 5

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. In verses 1-6, the father is warning his son of the dangers of the forbidden woman, the adulterous woman. (This warning is also for the daughter, forbidden men exist too.) How should the son's lips differ from the forbidden woman’s lips? What is the result of listening to the forbidden woman’s speech? Ponder: If the forbidden woman does not ponder the path of life, what does this say about her desire for immediate gratification versus delayed gratification? How does she use her words to get what she wants?
2. In verses 7-14, the father warns the son of what will happen if he gives in to the forbidden woman. What boundary is the father encouraging the son to place in his life (v8)? In verses 9-11, what areas of life can be effected by giving into the forbidden woman? In verses 12-14, what will be realized at the end of one’s life if they indulged with the forbidden woman?
3. In the last section, verses 15-23, the father encourages the son to be faithful to his wife and let her, only, satisfy him. In verses 15-20, what is God’s design for our attitude toward intimacy in marriage? Ponder: If this is God’s design for marriage, what if this is not your attitude? How might our attitude in marriage be, in part, a spiritual battle? As a single person, how does this call you to protect your sexuality until marriage? How does this lead you to pray?
4. In verses 21-23, who sees all our choices in life? How does the sin of the wicked effect them? What does the wicked lack? Ponder: if someone is ensnared and held fast, what does this say about the power of sin? How does this help us understand the boundaries in verse 8? How are your boundaries? How does this lead you to pray?

May 6: Proverbs 6

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. In verses 1-5, what does the father warn the son not to “put up?” If someone “puts up security” it means to pledge, to mortgage, to undertake for. So, for example, to co-sign on a debt or take on the future debt for someone. How strongly does this section warn against this? Ponder: does this mean it is a sin to co-sign on a loan for someone? Remember what proverbs are, statements that are generally true. In light of this section, how might the prudent man/woman approach such a request?
2. In verses 6-7, we are asked to consider the ant. What is the ant’s motivation for the work it does? In comparing the ant to the sluggard man, what will happen to the sluggard if they do not work like the ant? How fast will the consequences come? Ponder: How should we view work? Look up Genesis 2:15, Colossians 3:23, 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 and Hebrews 13:16. How does this lead you to pray?
3. In verses 12-15, what are the five aspects of the worthless person described in this section? How often does he sow discord? How would you summarize the worthless person? How quickly and how severely will his consequences come? Ponder: do you think he considers the consequences? Does he fear consequences?
4. In verse 16-19, we see a list, not an exhaustive list, but a list of 7 things the Lord hates. What are the 7 sins? As you read the list, you will notice it covers the attitudes, thoughts, speech, actions, and influence of man. For an in-depth look at each sin, see: https://www.gotquestions.org/seven-things-God-hates.html. Ponder: considering praying through this list and asking God to reveal any sin in your life. 1 John 1:9.
5. In verses 20-23, how often should we heed the wisdom of God and where should it be bound? How should we consider God’s commands, teachings, and discipline?
6. Verses 24-26 describes how one gives into the evil woman (man). What is the person dwelling on that leads to their fall into sin? How can 1 Corinthians 6:18 be a guide to us concerning this issue? In verses 27-29, what will happen if we entertain this relationship with the evil woman? How does Luke 12:2 relate to verses 27-29? In verses 30-35, what do those who give into the evil woman lack? Who does it destroy and how will it destroy?
7. Ponder: What is your take away from this chapter? What has God impressed upon your heart, convicted you of, or how has He encouraged you? How does this lead you to pray?

May 7: Proverbs 7

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. In the first 9 chapters of Proverbs there is much attention given to the adulteress woman. Here in chapter 7 we are given a scenario of the fall into this sin. In verse 1, what is the result of treasuring and keeping the commandments? Contrast this with the last verse of the chapter; what is the result of not obeying this command?
2. In verses 6-9, how is the young man described? At what time is this taking place? In verses 10-12, how is the woman described? Of the five senses, which ones is she attempting to entice in verses 13-21? (Note: the statement, “I had to offer sacrifices,” could indicate she had food at her home to share.) What emotions is she appealing to? In verses 22-23, what examples does it use to describe the young man?
3. In verses 24-27, the father lists three things to guard; your heart, your body, and your future. How are you doing in these areas? How does this lead you to pray?
4. Ponder: If Proverbs devotes so much time to avoiding sexual sin, particularly the sin of adultery, what does this say about the lure to sacrifice our integrity and to abandon our commitments for immediate gratification? According to Jesus definition of adultery in Matthew 5:27-28, would viewing pornography be considered adultery? How seriously does God take sexual sin? We desperately need a savior, Jesus! For those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior, how does I Corinthians 6:9-11 encourage those who have previously engaged in sexual sin? How does this lead you to pray?
5. If you do not know Jesus as your personal savior please reach out to us. We would love to talk with you and help you know for sure you are forgiven and bound for heaven! Reach out at through email at info@gracepointefc.org or call us at 517-265-7997.

May 8: Proverbs 8

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. In verses 1-5, where can wisdom be found? In verse 5, who is wisdom speaking to and what does she want for them? Ponder: according to this section, do we need a master’s degree to find wisdom? Why or why not? Where is wisdom found: check out 1:7 and 2:1-5?
2. In verses 6-13, what kind of information does wisdom give? How strongly should we desire wisdom? What does the Lord hate? Ponder: Ask the Lord to help you evaluate your desire for wisdom compared to your desire for other things. How does this lead you to pray?
3. In verses 14-21, wisdom is the key to success in all we do. What must I do to gain wisdom and what will be the result?
4. In verses 22-31, how long has wisdom been around? How did God use wisdom to create all that He made? What did wisdom bring the Lord daily, as He created? How does the Lord feel about the children of man?
5. In verses 32-36, what does wisdom bring to those who keep her ways and listen to her? In the last verse, what contrast do you find between those who find wisdom and those who do not?
6. Ponder: when the Lord used wisdom to create the world it led to His delight. If we seek and exercise wisdom in our life, how might our delight in life grow? How does this lead you to pray?

May 9: Proverbs 9

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Chapter 9 wraps up the wisdom proverbs with the unstated question of “Which will I follow; wisdom or folly?” In verses 1-6, we see wisdom’s plea to follow her and in verses 13-18 we see folly’s plea to follow her. In verses 7-12 we see the contrast between the two where wisdom gains more wisdom.
2. In verses 1-6, what does wisdom plead for the one who lacks sense to leave? What will be the result if they heed this plea? How will they walk?
3. In verses 7-12, how does the scoffer and the wicked respond to correction? In contrast, how does wisdom respond to being reproved? When instruction is given to the wise what will happen? What is the beginning of wisdom?
4. In verses 13-18, what does the woman of folly know? Where do you find her? What does she say is sweet and pleasant? Where will this lead?
5. Ponder: how has this section (chapters 1-9) impacted your thinking on wisdom? Do. You know how to grow in wisdom? How does this lead you to pray? 
For more insight: https://www.gotquestions.org/get-wisdom-from-God.html.

May 10: Proverbs 10

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. This chapter begins a portion of Proverbs entitled, “The proverbs of Solomon.” In this section we could think of it as a vending machine where there are many small snacks to choose from. The proverbs are short, usually one verse, and often present contrasting ideas: those who follow wisdom (the righteous) versus those who choose folly (the wicked). They typically do not relate to one another, so each chapter is comprised of many individual proverbs expressing a variety of topics. As we have stated before, proverbs are not promises, but generally true statements that lead to wisdom in our thinking, speaking, and actions. 

Therefore we are going to approach this next section a little differently. Rather than questions to process each proverb, you will be asked to do the following for each chapter:
2. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
3. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
4. Pause and consider: what is the proverb saying? What is the contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
5. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
6. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
7. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
8. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 11: Proverbs 11

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what is the proverb saying? What is the contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 12: Proverbs 12

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what is the proverb saying? What is the contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 13: Proverbs 13

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what is the proverb saying? What is the contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 14: Proverbs 14

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what is the proverb saying? What is the contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 15: Proverbs 15

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what is the proverb saying? What is the contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 16: Proverbs 16

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to Gold in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what is the proverb saying? What is the contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 17: Proverbs 17

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what is the proverb saying? What is the contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 18: Proverbs 18

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what is the proverb saying? What is the contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 19: Proverbs 19

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what is the proverb saying? What is the contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 20: Proverbs 20

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to the Lord in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what is the proverb saying? What is the contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 21: Proverbs 21

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what is the proverb saying? What is the contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 22: Proverbs 22

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Using the method we have been applying for chapters 10-21, you can approach verses 1-16 in the same way. (See yesterday’s questions).
2. Starting in verse 17 we are entering the 3rd division of the book of Proverbs, the “30 sayings” section, which most scholars believe was not written by Solomon, but other wise men. Verses 17-21 are the introduction to this section. What is the plea the author is making? What will be the result of heeding his plea? What does he want your trust to be in? How are the 30 sayings described in verse 20? What will they make you know?
3. As you read through the 30 sayings in Chapters 22:17-24:22, we will be applying the same method as before. However, rather than each verse expressing a unique statement, the 30 sayings are typically more than one verse long. So to aide you in knowing what verses go together I will give you a list for each chapter. As you read follow the same method as you have done for the previous chapters.
4. This chapter contains sayings 1-5: 1) verses 22-23; 2) verses 24-25; 3) verses 26-27; 4) verse 28; and 5) verse 29. If you have time, you could mark them in your Bible and in the margin write a summary word or short statement as a label for each saying.

May 23: Proverbs 23

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. In this chapter we have wise sayings 6-18 as illustrated in the attached chart.
2. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
3. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a wise saying that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
4. Pause and consider: what does the wise saying, say? Is there a contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
5. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
6. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
7. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
8. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 24: Proverbs 24

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:,

1. In this chapter we have wise sayings 19-30 listed in the attached chart. Also, in addition to the conclusion of the 30 wise sayings, verses 23-34 contain 6 more wise sayings gathered from other wise men.
2. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
3. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a wise saying that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
4. Pause and consider: what does the wise saying, say? Is there a contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
5. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
6. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
7. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
8. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 25: Proverbs 25

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Chapter 25 -29 return to Solomon’s wisdom. The majority of this section are maxims, which is a general truth or fundamental principle.
2. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
3. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
4. Pause and consider: what does the proverb say? Is there a contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
5. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
6. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
7. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
8. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 26: Proverbs 26

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. This chapter mainly addresses fools and folly. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what does the proverb say? Is there a contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 27: Proverbs 27

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what does the proverb say? Is there a contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 28: Proverbs 28

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what does the proverb say? Is there a contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 29: Proverbs 29

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

1. Read the chapter. Notice how those with wisdom speak, think, act, and feel.
2. Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to a proverb that He wants to work on in your life. Read the chapter again. You might want to underline this verse in your Bible and put the date beside it as a reminder of what God is doing in your life.
3. Pause and consider: what does the proverb say? Is there a contrast presented? Look up any cross references noted in your Bible. You may also want to look up your verse for more insight in Dr. Constable’s notes: https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/pdf/proverbs.pdf. Once on the site, search for your verse to read his notes.
4. How does this play out in my life? Am I choosing the way of wisdom or folly? Write the proverb down on a piece of paper or in the notes of your phone so that you can ponder it throughout the day. Be intentional here, we are seeking life transformation!
5. Pray and ask the Lord to grow you in wisdom in this area of your life.
6. Share what the Lord is teaching you with your spouse, a family member, or a friend.
7. My prayer for you is that you will revisit Proverbs over and over, applying this same process as God continues to grow you in wisdom.

May 30: Proverbs 30

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

Notice this chapter was not written by one of the wise men from the other chapters and it was not written by Solomon, but it was written by a man named Agur.

1. In verses 1-4, there is a comparison between what God knows and what man knows. How would you put the comparison in your own words?
2. In verses 5-6, where does Agur place his trust for what is true? How is God our shield? What is the warning in verse 6? Ponder: In our culture I think it is fair to say many do not believe God’s word is true. How does our culture feel, think and speak about God’s word? If we are trying to share His truth with others, no adding to it or taking away from it, how comforting would the truth of the second line of verse 5 be to you in light of our culture?
3. In verses 7-9, we find the only prayer in the book of Proverbs. What are the two things Agur requests of the Lord? How do these verses give insight into the motivation of his requests (hint: what is his fear?) Ponder: Do you often think about the motivation of your own heart? If you do, how does it impact your prayers?
4. As you read through the rest of the chapter approach it as we have before. (See yesterday’s questions for directions if you need to).

May 31: Proverbs 31

Pray: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

1. What do you learn about God (The Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?

Dig Deeper:

Notice: This chapter is written by King Lemuel from the words his mother had taught him.

1. In verses 2, what type of woman does King Lemuel’s mother warn him of ? In verse 4-7, there is a contrast presented concerning drinking. What is the contrast between the effects of drinking for the kings versus the ones who are perishing? In verses 8-9, what instruction does his mother give him about those who cannot speak or provide for themselves?
2. King Lemuel’s mother wanted her son to care with wisdom and fairness for his people and especially the poor. She wisely knew his choice of wife would either aid him in this endeavor or destroy him and his ability to accomplish this goal. Therefore, she is instructing him to choose a wife wisely. The rest of the chapter is dedicated to the “excellent wife.” It will list the ideal qualities and abilities of a wife who displays wisdom and discernment. While the qualities listed are good and right for women to aspire to, we must also remember no one can reach perfection. If we could, we would not need Christ! For further study: https://www.gotquestions.org/Proverbs-31-virtuous-woman.html.
3. Ponder: is there a quality the Lord is working on in you? How does this lead you to pray? Men, do you pray for your wives? Do you encourage her as she loves and cares for your family? How does this lead you to pray?