Embracing Godly Wisdom Through Worship and Reverence
Summary
Today, we gathered to explore the profound relationship between wisdom and godliness, a theme that is central to our ongoing series, "According to Godliness." We began by acknowledging the importance of worship and the role it plays in our lives as believers. Worship is not just about singing songs; it’s about living a life that reflects the character of God. This includes our desire to look like Him, love like Him, and live in a way that honors Him.
We then transitioned into a prayer, asking God to decrease us so that He might increase, and to help us receive the tools and encouragement needed to be more like Him. This set the stage for our deep dive into the Book of Proverbs, specifically Proverbs 1:1-7, which serves as a foundational text for understanding godly wisdom.
Proverbs 1:1-7 introduces us to the wisdom of Solomon, the son of David, and outlines the purpose of the book: to impart wisdom, instruction, and understanding. The passage emphasizes that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, and that fools despise wisdom and instruction. This fear is not about being scared but about having a deep reverence and respect for God, which shapes our character and actions.
We explored the Hebrew meanings of key terms like wisdom, instruction, and understanding. Wisdom, in this context, refers to wise judgment and decision-making that leads to success and favor. Instruction involves discipline, either from people or God, to correct faults. Understanding translates to discernment, the ability to grasp righteousness, justice, and equity.
We also discussed the importance of prudence and knowledge. Prudence is about giving the simple, or the gullible, the tools they need to make wiser decisions. Knowledge, similar to wisdom, comes from God and can be learned through instruction or discipline. It involves showing restraint and experiencing success.
The climax of our discussion was Proverbs 1:7, which states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction." This verse led us to ask interpretive questions to deepen our understanding. Why is the fear of the Lord the beginning of knowledge? What does it mean to fear the Lord? How does this fit into the context of the first six verses?
We then looked at examples from other wisdom literature, such as Job and Ecclesiastes, to understand that gaining wisdom often involves experiencing the fear of the Lord, suffering, and recognizing that life doesn’t always go as planned. However, Old Testament wisdom is seen as a clear path to blessings.
To further illustrate the concept of fearing the Lord, we examined Job 1:1 and Ecclesiastes 12:13, which describe fearing God as rejecting evil and obeying His commands. We also did a word study on "fear," which translates to moral reverence—a deep honor, respect, awe, and worship of God. This reverence is reflected in our behaviors, habits, choices, and lifestyles.
We concluded with a practical application, urging everyone to reflect on areas in their lives where they have not surrendered to God's will and have instead chased their own wisdom. We prayed for transformation and for the courage to embrace God's wisdom over the world's.
Finally, we transitioned into our "Every Member Ministry," encouraging everyone to discuss what they learned and how it applies to their lives. This is a time for us to share insights and support each other in our spiritual journeys.
### Key Takeaways
1. Worship as a Lifestyle: Worship is more than just singing; it’s about living a life that reflects God's character. Our actions, decisions, and interactions should all be acts of worship, demonstrating our reverence and love for God. This holistic approach to worship helps us to live in a way that honors Him and draws others to His love. [32:39]
2. The Fear of the Lord: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. This fear is not about being scared but about having a deep reverence and respect for God. It shapes our character and actions, leading us to reject evil and obey His commands. This reverence is reflected in our behaviors, habits, choices, and lifestyles. [33:44]
3. Wisdom and Instruction: Wisdom involves wise judgment and decision-making that leads to success and favor. Instruction involves discipline to correct faults. Understanding translates to discernment, the ability to grasp righteousness, justice, and equity. These qualities are essential for living a godly life. [34:52]
4. Prudence and Knowledge: Prudence is about giving the simple, or the gullible, the tools they need to make wiser decisions. Knowledge, similar to wisdom, comes from God and can be learned through instruction or discipline. It involves showing restraint and experiencing success. These qualities help us navigate life’s challenges with godly wisdom. [36:42]
5. Reflecting on Our Lives: We must reflect on areas in our lives where we have not surrendered to God's will and have instead chased our own wisdom. This reflection helps us to identify where we need to change and transform to align more closely with God's wisdom. Embracing God's wisdom over the world's leads to a life that is pleasing to Him and beneficial to us. [39:15]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[32:39] - Introduction to Worship and Wisdom
[33:44] - Prayer for Guidance
[34:52] - Exploring Proverbs 1:1-7
[36:42] - Understanding Key Terms
[39:15] - The Fear of the Lord
[41:22] - Examples from Job and Ecclesiastes
[43:09] - Practical Application
[45:23] - Every Member Ministry
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Proverbs 1:1-7
- Job 1:1
- Ecclesiastes 12:13
### Observation Questions
1. What does Proverbs 1:1-7 say about the purpose of the Book of Proverbs? How does it describe wisdom, instruction, and understanding?
2. According to the sermon, what is the significance of the "fear of the Lord" as mentioned in Proverbs 1:7? [39:15]
3. How does Job 1:1 describe Job's character and his relationship with God?
4. What conclusion does Ecclesiastes 12:13 reach about the duty of man?
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is the "fear of the Lord" considered the beginning of knowledge according to Proverbs 1:7? How does this concept shape our understanding of wisdom? [39:15]
2. How does the sermon explain the Hebrew meanings of key terms like wisdom, instruction, and understanding? Why are these qualities essential for living a godly life? [36:42]
3. In what ways do the examples from Job and Ecclesiastes illustrate the concept of fearing the Lord? How do these examples help us understand the relationship between wisdom and godliness? [41:22]
4. How does the sermon differentiate between the wisdom of the world and the wisdom from God? What are the characteristics of godly wisdom as described in the sermon? [01:01:39]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your daily life: In what ways can you transform your actions, decisions, and interactions to be acts of worship that reflect God's character? [32:39]
2. Identify an area in your life where you have not fully surrendered to God's will. What steps can you take to embrace God's wisdom over your own understanding? [01:03:16]
3. How can you cultivate a deeper reverence and respect for God in your daily habits and choices? What practical changes can you make to reflect this reverence? [41:22]
4. Think of a recent decision you made based on worldly wisdom. How could you have approached it differently using godly wisdom? What would the outcome have been? [01:01:39]
5. How can you apply the qualities of wisdom, instruction, and understanding in your relationships with others? Give a specific example of how you can show wise judgment and discernment in a challenging situation. [36:42]
6. Reflect on a time when you experienced suffering or a challenge. How did this experience help you gain wisdom and a deeper understanding of the fear of the Lord? [39:15]
7. How can you support and encourage others in your small group to live a life that reflects godly wisdom and reverence for God? What practical steps can you take together to grow in wisdom and godliness? [01:05:05]
Devotional
Day 1: Worship as a Lifestyle
Worship is more than just singing; it’s about living a life that reflects God's character. Our actions, decisions, and interactions should all be acts of worship, demonstrating our reverence and love for God. This holistic approach to worship helps us to live in a way that honors Him and draws others to His love. Worship is not confined to a church service or a specific time of day; it is a continuous act of living in a manner that glorifies God. When we understand worship as a lifestyle, we begin to see every moment as an opportunity to honor God through our choices and actions.
Living a life of worship means embodying the character of God in all that we do. It involves loving others as He loves us, showing kindness, patience, and forgiveness. It means making decisions that reflect His wisdom and righteousness. By doing so, we not only honor God but also become a testament to His love and grace, drawing others to Him. Reflect on how your daily actions can be acts of worship and consider ways to integrate this mindset into your everyday life. [32:39]
Romans 12:1 (ESV): "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship."
Reflection: How can you transform your daily routines and interactions into acts of worship that reflect God's character?
Day 2: The Fear of the Lord
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. This fear is not about being scared but about having a deep reverence and respect for God. It shapes our character and actions, leading us to reject evil and obey His commands. This reverence is reflected in our behaviors, habits, choices, and lifestyles. The fear of the Lord is foundational to gaining true wisdom and understanding. It is a recognition of God's holiness, power, and authority, which compels us to live in a way that honors Him.
When we fear the Lord, we acknowledge His sovereignty and submit to His will. This reverence influences our decisions, guiding us to choose righteousness over sin. It helps us to discern what is just and equitable, aligning our lives with God's standards. Reflect on what it means to fear the Lord in your own life and how this reverence can transform your actions and decisions. [33:44]
Proverbs 9:10 (ESV): "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight."
Reflection: In what specific ways can you cultivate a deeper reverence for God in your daily life, and how might this change your actions and decisions?
Day 3: Wisdom and Instruction
Wisdom involves wise judgment and decision-making that leads to success and favor. Instruction involves discipline to correct faults. Understanding translates to discernment, the ability to grasp righteousness, justice, and equity. These qualities are essential for living a godly life. Wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but practical insight that guides us in making decisions that honor God and benefit others. Instruction, whether from God or others, helps us to grow and mature in our faith.
Understanding allows us to see situations from God's perspective, discerning what is right and just. These qualities work together to help us navigate life's challenges with godly wisdom. Reflect on how you can seek wisdom, embrace instruction, and develop understanding in your own life. Consider the areas where you need God's guidance and be open to His correction and teaching. [34:52]
James 1:5 (ESV): "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him."
Reflection: What steps can you take to seek God's wisdom and be open to His instruction in your daily life?
Day 4: Prudence and Knowledge
Prudence is about giving the simple, or the gullible, the tools they need to make wiser decisions. Knowledge, similar to wisdom, comes from God and can be learned through instruction or discipline. It involves showing restraint and experiencing success. These qualities help us navigate life’s challenges with godly wisdom. Prudence equips us to make thoughtful and informed decisions, avoiding pitfalls and embracing opportunities that align with God's will.
Knowledge, when rooted in God's truth, empowers us to live wisely and successfully. It involves learning from God's Word and applying its principles to our lives. Reflect on how you can cultivate prudence and knowledge in your own life, seeking God's guidance in your decisions and actions. Consider the areas where you need to grow in understanding and be intentional about learning and applying God's truth. [36:42]
Proverbs 2:6-7 (ESV): "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity."
Reflection: How can you actively seek and apply God's knowledge and prudence in your daily decisions and actions?
Day 5: Reflecting on Our Lives
We must reflect on areas in our lives where we have not surrendered to God's will and have instead chased our own wisdom. This reflection helps us to identify where we need to change and transform to align more closely with God's wisdom. Embracing God's wisdom over the world's leads to a life that is pleasing to Him and beneficial to us. Self-reflection is a crucial part of spiritual growth, allowing us to see where we fall short and where we need God's guidance and transformation.
By examining our lives honestly, we can identify areas where we rely on our own understanding rather than seeking God's wisdom. This process of reflection and surrender helps us to align our lives more closely with God's will, leading to greater peace, joy, and fulfillment. Reflect on the areas of your life where you need to surrender to God and seek His wisdom. Consider the changes you need to make to live a life that honors Him. [39:15]
Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV): "Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!"
Reflection: What specific areas of your life do you need to surrender to God's will, and how can you begin to seek His wisdom in those areas today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Insight refers to the person who is careful about what they say. This person gets along with others and they seek God and find his blessings. And then it gets into righteousness, which refers to just doing what's right. And justice refers to fairness and ruling. And then it goes into prudence to the simple. And that just refers to someone who's not even their gullible. That person easily falls into sin because they are oblivious. They are oblivious. They honestly just don't know any better. And then prudence refers to intelligence. So, it's saying that given that person the tools that they need to make wiser decisions in life, this person can learn and then accept discipline." [37:34]
2. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. Fools despise wisdom and instruction. So, at that point, I begin to start asking questions. And if anyone's in the Teach Me How to Fish Bible Study on Wednesday night, you know and you understand the importance of interpretive questions because those interpretive questions help you to build context and to really know what's actually being said in that scripture. Right? So, I started to ask questions like, why is the fear of the Lord the beginning of knowledge? What does it mean to fear the Lord? How does this saying fit into the context of those? What are the first six verses and what are they stating? And all these questions, I believe, are important with a few other in our interpretive process." [39:15]
3. "The fear of the Lord is a very important concept in the Old Testament scriptures. Job 1 and 1 is described as a man who was blameless and upright, but one who feared God and shunned evil. In Ecclesiastes 12 and 13, the book concludes its teaching with, the end of the matter all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. So, we're beginning to see that some attributes of God, of fearing God in the Old Testament includes rejecting evil and obeying the Lord's commands." [40:21]
4. "The wisdom of our culture and our society is an illusion it can't be trusted and what is an illusion other than deception and what is deception if not a lie and who is the father of lies satan but we can trust the lord's wisdom as james mentioned it's peaceable it's gentle it's open to reason full of mercy and sincere god's wisdom isn't harmful to us it's helpful to us the world's wisdom will tell you that if you go down this path this is what the result is going to be but actually once you go down that path you see how far it took you away from the lord you you understood and realized that you then had to maintain whatever you started with in order to keep the wisdom of the world but not with god his wisdom is is not harmful it's helpful don't be so quick to lean into the wisdom of the world as i close don't be so quick to lean into the wisdom of the world society wisdom says so many things at the end of the day you got to do what's best for you you got to protect your peace you got to protect your energy you can't do what you can do whatever you put your mind to believe in yourself you know what's best for you be with someone who makes you happy" [01:03:16]
5. "Ultimately y'all that is the point of wisdom is to embrace and revere the lord and say you know what god i want to do this for you i want to do this for you i want to do this for you i want to do this because i know that this is one going to please you i want to do this because i know that ultimately this is what you have for me this is the truth this is what's actually right this is good and that is what's going to then that's what's going to change and transform my heart so lord i thank you for how you've moved today i thank you that we will just have the time to just sit on this and we will have the time lord to just hear from you and ponder where are the areas in my life that i have not surrendered to your will where the areas of my life that i've chased my own wisdom of my own understanding and not yours and lead us into the way everlasting lord help us to be changed help us to be transformed help us to look like you to sound like you and to be like you lord in jesus name we pray amen" [01:05:05]
### Quotes for Members
1. "For those that don't know, like I said in the beginning, Proverbs is wisdom literature. In this genre, wisdom's concern is how to live a successful life in the midst of everyday challenges. There are two other wisdom books, Job's and Ecclesiastes, that clearly explain that to gain wisdom, we may experience some intense fear of the Lord. We may experience suffering and that life doesn't always go the way that we intend. But even still, Old Testament wisdom is the clear path to blessings. So, Proverbs understands this, but that's not the goal of the book. So, these points will guide us in our understanding of the fear of the Lord. And as I continued to study, I began to see how this fear of the Lord really shapes our understanding of our place in God's world as his creation." [39:15]
2. "So, the fear of the Lord is a very important concept in the Old Testament scriptures. Job 1 and 1 is described as a man who was blameless and upright, but one who feared God and shunned evil. In Ecclesiastes 12 and 13, the book concludes its teaching with, the end of the matter all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. So, we're beginning to see that some attributes of God, of fearing God in the Old Testament includes rejecting evil and obeying the Lord's commands. So, if we dig a little bit deeper here and we look at fear and do a word study, it says that that translates to moral reverence. And moral reverence describes how our character is shaped by our deeply felt honor, our respect, our awe, and our worship of God. So, this reverence reflects, one, our understanding of God's greatness and our willingness to honor him in all aspects of our lives. So, we display our fear or our moral reverence of the Lord in our behaviors, in our habits, in our choices, our lifestyles." [41:22]
3. "So, today, once again, we're going to be talking about wisdom and godliness, right? How wisdom produces godliness. And we've been in this series, According to Godliness, and our pastors have taken us through. We've gone through Titus and we're in 1 Timothy. Like, we've been learning a lot as it pertains to godliness. And I think one of the key components of godliness. Is wisdom, right? So, I think that's why it's important for us to fully understand God's wisdom and not just the wisdom of the culture of the wisdom of the world that we live in. And I believe that Proverbs as a wisdom literature would be a great place for us to start to understand God's wisdom." [34:52]
4. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge fools despise wisdom and instruction. So, as I read this passage repeatedly, like over and over and over, and those who understand that understand that as we have learned in our teachings with tanks, you have to keep reading the word to understand it and memorize it so that you can understand the context. That fear of the Lord part, that just kept sticking out to me the most. And if we look back at those first six verses, the opening begins by, So, this implies that the recipients of that time, which were the children of Israel, understood that Proverbs were short sayings. They're not universal truths, but they're valuable insights into godly living. They're short, very memorable statements that are easy to remember. And then there's the naming of King Solomon, which implied that they were already aware of who he was. And we know that in first Kings three, it tells us that Solomon was noted as being one of the wisest men in the world and that God gave him the gift. And that's the gift of wisdom." [36:42]
5. "The introduction goes on to tell us that the intent and purpose of the book and the qualities we are to possess from our study of the book are listed in this book. Cool. So, it says to know wisdom and instruction. Wisdom here in Hebrew means it's wise judgment or decision making, which leads to success. And it can bring strength and favor. Instruction refers to discipline, either given by the people or by God to help to correct any faults. It says to understand. So, understanding here in Hebrew translates. To discernment, it's like wisdom. It describes the ability to understand righteousness, justice and equity." [36:42]
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