Big Idea

The way to wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord.

Scripture

Proverbs 1:7, Proverbs 9:10-12, Proverbs 16:6 & 9, and Proverbs 3:13-18

Overview

This new four-week series will explore the way of wisdom through the book of Proverbs, which is most typically associated with wisdom in the Bible.

Opening Questions

What’s the best advice or wisdom you’ve ever received, and how has it impacted your life? If you could gain the wisdom of any historical figure for a day, who would you choose and why?

Bible Discussion

1. Read Proverbs 1:7. What do you think it means by “the fear of the Lord”? Why do you think it is described as the “beginning of knowledge”? How can reverence for God lead to greater understanding and knowledge?

2. Proverbs 9:10-12 goes on to tell us the result of having wisdom through the fear of the Lord. Do you think this result is meant to be understood literally, figuratively, or both? In what practical ways can wisdom lead to a longer and more fulfilling life?

3. Read Proverbs 16, verses 6 and 9. What do these verses say about the fear of the Lord?

4. Proverbs 3:13-18 personifies wisdom in a beautiful and powerful way. Which verse is most impactful to you and why?

Life Application

5. Have you ever had one of those moments where you made some simple choices that, at the start, felt wise, only to discover yourself quite far down the path of foolishness? If so, share your story. (Humorous stories are encouraged here!) 🙂

6. Now, share when seeking wisdom or fearing the Lord resulted in a positive outcome for you. How can you encourage others to seek wisdom and the fear of the Lord in their own lives?

7. Do you have a healthy fear of the Lord that comes from awe and reverence? Why or why not? In what ways can you grow in your fear of the Lord? End your group time in prayer, asking God to empower and guide you to grow in your fear of the Lord so that you may also grow in wisdom.