The Way of Wisdom
A Study Guide for Living with Godly Wisdom in a Foolish World
1. Introduction: What Is Proverbs and Who Wrote It?
Primarily written by Solomon, the wisest man to ever live (1 Kings 3:12), with contributions from Agur and King Lemuel.
A collection of short sayings, poetic teachings, and observations about life, choices, and consequences.
The central theme: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” (Proverbs 1:7)
Written to help readers live with discernment, discipline, and righteousness.
Reflection: Wisdom isn’t just knowing facts—it’s living in reverent relationship with God and applying truth to life.
2. The Invitation of Wisdom (Chapters 1–9)
Wisdom is personified as a woman calling out in the streets, urging people to listen and live.
Warnings against foolishness, laziness, violence, greed, and sexual sin.
Parental guidance: “Listen, my son…” is a repeated call to choose wisdom over impulse.
The contrast between Lady Wisdom and the seductive fool.
Takeaway: God’s wisdom isn’t hidden—it’s calling out. The question is whether we’ll listen or reject it.
3. Living Wisely in Everyday Life (Chapters 10–29)
Short, practical proverbs covering dozens of life areas:
Words: “The tongue has the power of life and death…” (18:21)
Money: “Honor the Lord with your wealth…” (3:9)
Work ethic: “Go to the ant, you sluggard…” (6:6)
Friendship: “As iron sharpens iron…” (27:17)
Anger: “A gentle answer turns away wrath…” (15:1)
Each chapter contrasts the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked.
Lesson: Wisdom shows up in how you speak, spend, work, rest, give, and respond. It’s not just what you know—it’s what you do.
4. Warnings About the Fool and the Sluggard
Fools reject correction, mock sin, speak without thinking, and bring ruin to themselves and others.
The lazy (sluggard) make excuses, waste time, and miss out on blessing.
These examples show what happens when wisdom is ignored.
Truth: God’s way works—but we must choose it intentionally and reject the easy path of foolishness and comfort.
5. The Virtuous Life and the Virtuous Woman (Chapters 30–31)
Chapter 30: Agur reflects on human limitation and God’s unmatched wisdom.
Chapter 31: Lemuel’s mother teaches him how to rule well—and praises a woman of noble character.
The “Proverbs 31 woman” is wise, strong, generous, God-fearing, and hardworking.
This chapter is often applied to women, but it’s a picture of any life that walks in wisdom.
Encouragement: The goal is not perfection—but a life that honors God through faith, diligence, and godliness.
6. Key Verses to Memorize or Meditate On
Proverbs 1:7 – “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge…”
Proverbs 3:5–6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart…”
Proverbs 4:23 – “Guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
Proverbs 9:10 – “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom…”
Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction…”
Proverbs 27:17 – “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”
7. Questions for Discussion or Journaling
How does the fear of the Lord influence the way you live and make decisions?
Which area of your life do you most need God’s wisdom—speech, finances, relationships, etc.?
What’s the difference between knowledge and wisdom?
How do the warnings about foolishness speak to today’s culture?
How can you become more intentional about seeking and applying God’s wisdom daily?
What does Proverbs 31 teach us about godly character for men and women alike?