New Bible Reflections

10/19/14

From Mark Copeland... Somatic Therapy For Wise Living (Proverbs 4:20-27)

                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

               Somatic Therapy For Wise Living (4:20-27)

INTRODUCTION

1. In our study of chapter four thus far, we have seen Solomon make two
   appeals concerning wisdom,
   which I entitled...
   a. Childhood Memories Of A Wise Man (4:1-9)
   b. The Two Paths (4:10-19)

2. Solomon's third appeal to wisdom (4:20-27) makes metaphoric use of
   body parts...
   a. Such as the ears, eyes and mouth
   b. Such as the heart and feet

3. I like to think of this section as "Somatic Therapy For Wise
   Living"...
   a. Somatic means "of or relating to the body"
   b. Somatic therapy normally refers to holistic treatment designed to
      integrate the mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical aspects
      of one's being
   c. I am using it accommodatively in this lesson for the sake of
      illustration

[If we are to live wisely, then we need to apply "somatic therapy".
Let's begin with the fundamentals, what we might call...]

I. SOMATIC THERAPY 101

   A. INCLINE YOUR EAR TO WISDOM...
      1. "My son, give attention to my words; incline your ears to my
         sayings." - Pr 4:20
      2. In other words, careful attention to words of wisdom is
         required
      3. If we have ears to hear, then we must use them, leaning forward
         to listen if necessary
      4. Similar to the Bereans, who "received the word with all
         readiness" - Ac 17:11
      -- Do we make good use of our ears, listening carefully when
         wisdom is shared?

   B. FOCUS YOUR EYES ON WISDOM...
      1. "Do not let them depart from your eyes" - Pr 4:21a
      2. The eyes should be fixed on wise teaching
      3. This implies careful reading of that which imparts wisdom
      4. As Paul charged Timothy: "give attention to reading" - 1 Ti 4:13
      -- Do we make good use of our eyes, reading things that help make
         us wise?

   C. APPLY YOUR HEART TO WISDOM...
      1. "Keep them in the midst of your heart" - Pr 4:21b
      2. The heart in the Bible often refers to the mind or affections
         of a person
      3. This implies meditation upon those things we have heard or read
      4. As Paul exhorted the Philippians:  "...meditate on these
         things" - Php 4:8
      -- Do we spend time contemplating the wisdom we hear and read?

   D. THE BENEFITS OF SOMATIC THERAPY...
      1. "For they are life...and health..." - Pr 4:22
      2. Wisdom's words are life-giving and creative - Believer's Bible
         Commentary (BBC)
      3. And they are health to the whole body because they deliver a
         person from the sins and stresses that cause so much illness
         - ibid.
      4. As Jesus said:  "The words that I speak to you are spirit, and
         they are life" - Jn 6:63
      -- Do we let the wisdom of God give us a better life for both body
         and soul?

[Wise living truly involves more than just the inner man.  We must use
the whole man, including the eyes and ears that God gave us.  As we
continue, let's progress to the next level...]

II. SOMATIC THERAPY 201

   A. FOR THE HEART...
      1. "Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the
         issues of life" - Pr 4:23
      2. Diligence is required to guard the heart (the mind, the
         thoughts)
      3. For it is the fountain from which all actions spring - BBC
      4. As Jesus revealed concerning sin:  "For from within, out of the
         heart of man, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications,
         murders, thefts..." - Mk 7:21-23
      -- Are we careful about what goes into our hearts (minds)?

   B. FOR THE MOUTH AND LIPS...
      1. "Put away from you a deceitful mouth, And put perverse lips far
         from you." - Pr 4:24
      2. We must not use our mouths and lips to lie or otherwise mislead
         others
      3. As Paul commanded:  "putting away lying, let each one of you
         speak truth with his neighbor..." - Ep 4:25
      4. Again:  "Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but
         what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart
         grace to the hearers" - Ep 4:29
      -- Are we careful about what comes out of our mouths and lips?

   C. FOR THE EYES AND EYELIDS...
      1. "Let your eyes look straight ahead, and your eyelids look right
         before you." - Pr 4:25
      2. This suggests singleness of purpose, but it can also be take
         rather literally
      3. In a day when the mass media bombard us with publicity designed
         to arouse our animal appetites, we must learn to keep our eyes
         on Jesus. - BBC
      4. As Jesus warned, the eyes can be a conduit into the soul of man
         - cf. Mt 6:22-23
      -- Are we careful upon what we let our eyes linger?

   D. FOR THE FEET...
      1. "Ponder the path of your feet, and let all your ways be
         established." - Pr 4:26
         a. Think about the direction in which your feet are taking you
         b. Work toward walking on established ways, not the unstable
         c. In this, the Lord is willing to assist us - cf. Ps 37:23;
            40:2; Pr 3:6
      2. "Do not turn to the right or the left; remove your foot from
         evil." - Pr 4:27
         a. With the Lord before you, don't let the allurements of the
            world distract you
         b. Should you take a step in the wrong direction, quickly step
            back
         c. Again, the Lord is willing to help - cf. Mt 6:13; 26:41;
            1Co 10:13; 2Pe 2:9
      -- Are we careful about where our feet are taking us?

CONCLUSION

1. Through proper "somatic therapy" we can live wisely...
   a. Using our ears, eyes, and mouths in ways that are wholesome
   b. Filling our hearts with good, so that it is good that proceeds
      from our hearts
   c. Watching where our feet are taking us, turning away when headed in
      the wrong direction

2. How are we using our bodies as we go through life...?
   a. Do we listen attentively to the spoken Word of God?
   b. Do we read carefully the written Word of God?
   c. Do we apply God's word to our heart and soul?
   d. Are we careful about what we see, say, and hear?
   e. Are we watching the direction our feet are taking us?

Fail to apply the lessons of "Somatic Therapy 101" and "Somatic Therapy
201", and we will fail to succeed in the course of life...!

From Mark Copeland... The Two Paths (Proverbs 4:10-19)

                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

                        The Two Paths (4:10-19)

INTRODUCTION

1. The acquisition of wisdom is stressed repeatedly in the fourth
   chapter of Proverbs...
   a. "Get wisdom! Get understanding!..." - Pr 4:5
   b. "Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore get wisdom. And in all
      your getting, get understanding." - Pr 4:7

2. The importance of wisdom is further illustrated by two paths...
   a. Described in Pr 4:10-19
   b. We must take one path or the other

[In this study let's first summarize the two paths, and then take a
closer look at the metaphor used to describe one of them...]

I. THE TWO PATHS

   A. THE PATH OF WISDOM...
      1. The way of wisdom - Pr 4:11
      2. The consequences of choosing this path
         a. "...the years of your life will be many." - Pr 4:10
            1) As stated before - Pr 3:1-2
            2) Generally speaking, this is true, for wisdom leads one
               down the path more likely to bless the body with good
               health - cf. Pr 3:7-8
         b. "When you walk, your steps will not be hindered" - Pr 4:12a
            1) The reason for this was also stated before - Pr 3:5-6
            2) A person on this path has the Lord assisting them!
         c. "And when you run, you will not stumble." - Pr 4:12b
            1) Life can be hectic, there will be times when decisions
               must be made quickly
            2) Those on the right path are less likely to make mistakes,
               for they have chosen the way of wisdom
      3. In light of such consequences, the following admonitions are
         given - Pr 4:13
         a. "Take firm hold of instruction, do not let go"
         b. "Keep her, for she is your life."
      -- The path of wisdom is what God would have you take!

   B. THE PATH OF THE WICKED...
      1. The path of the wicked, the way of evil - Pr 4:14
      2. Note the strong admonitions regarding this path - Pr 4:14-15
         a. "Do not enter the path of the wicked"
         b. "Do not walk in the way of evil."
         c. "Avoid it, do not travel on it."
         c. "Turn away from it and pass on."
      3. Reasons to avoid to avoid this path
         a. One easily becomes obsessed with doing evil - Pr 4:16
            1) Sin is addictive, and enslaves - cf. Jn 8:34
            2) It dulls the senses, requiring ever more to satisfy - cf.
               Ep 4:19
         b. It becomes a life of wickedness and violence - Pr 4:17
            1) Sin is violent in every form
            2) For it damages our relationships with either God, others,
               or self!
      -- The path of the wicked is what God would have you avoid!

   C. THE TWO PATHS CONTRASTED...
      1. The path of the just is like the shining sun - Pr 4:18
         a. Just as the sun becomes brighter and brighter as it rises to
            reach its zenith in the sky
         b. So those who walk down the path of wisdom are progressively
            enlightened
      2. The way of the wicked is like darkness - Pr 4:19
         a. They go through life stumbling again and again!
         b. In their ignorance, they know not why! - cf. Ep 4:17-18
      -- Thus one path leads to increasing brightness, the other to
         blinding darkness

[Which of the two paths will we take in life?  To encourage us to make
the right choice, let's take a closer look at the metaphor used to
describe those who follow the path of the just...]

II. THE METAPHOR OF PROGRESSIVE BRIGHTNESS

   A. THE METAPHOR OF THE SHINING SUN...
      1. Describes a progressive brightness, not simply brightness
      2. Describing the sun as it rises in the sky until it reaches its
         zenith ("unto the perfect day")
      -- Thus the path of the just is one of progressive brightness

   B. COMPARED TO THE CHRISTIAN LIFE...
      1. It is to be a life of progression
         a. We begin as babes, but designed to grow - 1Pe 2:2
         b. We are to grow in grace and knowledge - 2Pe 3:18
      2. Though not always the case with some Christians
         a. Whose lives are not characterized by progression, but
            staleness or even regression
         b. Who fail to grow because spiritual amnesia and blindness
            - 2Pe 1:8-9
         c. Who grow weary in well doing - cf. Mal 1:13
         d. Who think its time to retire spiritually, contrary to mind
            of Paul
            1) Who believed the inner man could be renewed daily - 2 Co 4:16
            2) Who believed that we should ever press forward - Php 3:
               13-15
         e. Instead of being like the sun that shines ever brighter,
            they are like the fiery meteorites which flash for a moment
            and then flame out!
      -- Does the metaphor of progressive brightness describe our life
         in Christ?

[The Christian life and the path of the just are to be similar:  with
progressive brightness and no decline.  How can we ensure that such will
be the case in our walk with Christ...?]

III. MAKING LIFE WITH CHRIST PROGRESSIVELY BRIGHTER

   A. JESUS IS OUR LIGHT...
      1. He is indeed "the light of the world" - Jn 8:12
      2. We must therefore remember "that our path will brighten, not
         because of any radiance in ourselves, but in proportion as we
         draw nearer and nearer to the Fountain of heavenly radiance."
         - Maclaren
      3. The nearer we draw to Him, the more we shall shine - cf. 2 Co 3:18
      -- We are simply reflective luminaries (like the moon); Christ is
         our sun!

   C. WE DRAW NEARER TO THE LIGHT...
      1. Through devotional use of our Bibles
         a. For that is how Christ reveals Himself to us
         b. His words and that of His inspired apostles enlighten us
      2. Through diligent practice of prayer
         a. For that is how we draw near to God and Christ - cf. He 4:
            14-16
         b. Prayer ushers us into the throne room of God
      3. Through doing the commands of Christ
         a. Which ensures that the Father and Son will abide with us
            - cf. Jn 14:21,23
         b. Obedience brings us into a closer relationship with Christ
      -- These are simple steps that lead us on the ever brighter path
         of righteousness

CONCLUSION

1. There are only two paths, just as Jesus described two ways...
   a. One leading to destruction - Mt 7:13
   b. The other leading to life - Mt 7:14

2. Which path will you take...?
   a. The path of the just, that leads to increasing brightness?
   b. The path of the wicked, that leads to blinding darkness?

The choice is yours; let Jesus be your light if you want to chose the
path of the just... - cf. Ep 5:8

From Mark Copeland... Childhood Memories Of A Wise Man (Proverbs 4:1-9)

                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

                Childhood Memories Of A Wise Man (4:1-9)

INTRODUCTION

1. In Pr 1-9, we find Solomon pleading with his children to seek after
   wisdom...
   a. Through a collection of discourses
   b. Extolling and illustrating the value of wisdom time and again

2. In Pr 4:1-9, we find Solomon sharing recollections of his
   childhood...
   a. Of his own father (David)
   b. Exhorting him to seek after wisdom

[As we examine these "Childhood Memories Of A Wise Man," we will find
important principles in raising children to be godly and seekers of
wisdom.  The first memory might be stated in these words...]

I. "I WAS TAUGHT BY MY FATHER"

   A. HIS FATHER HAD ACCEPTED HIS RESPONSIBILITY...
      1. To teach him - Pr 4:3-4
      2. A responsibility placed by God on fathers - cf. Ep 6:4
      3. Not given to churches or schools per se
         a. They may serve as aids
         b. They should not become crutches
      4. For they are inadequate to teach as God intended - cf. Deut 6:
         6-9
         a. God's Word is to permeate the household
         b. Something the church and school alone cannot provide
      -- Blessed are children that have fathers who accept their
         responsibility!

   B. WHEN FATHERS FAIL TO FULFILL THEIR CHARGE...
      1. They will be held accountable
         a. Eli tried to correct his sons - 1 Sa 2:22-25
         b. But failed to his power to restrain them - 1 Sa 3:10-13
      2. The responsibility has to be taken up by others
         a. Timothy was blessed to have a godly grandmother and mother
            - 2Ti 1:5
         b. They evidently taught Timothy the Scriptures as a child
            - 2Ti 3:15
      -- Blessed are children that have mothers who provide where
         fathers do not!

[So Solomon was taught by his father, one of the greatest gifts a father
can give to a child.  But we note also the following recollection from
verse 3...]

II. "I WAS TAUGHT WHILE TENDER"

   A. THE TEACHING OCCURRED...
      1. While young enough to be impressionable
      2. Open to what the father has to say
      -- While he was willing to do what the father says

   B. TEACHING OFTEN OCCURS TOO LATE...
      1. After the child gets into trouble
      2. After the child begins to question everything parents say
      -- When a child is more likely to disregard or disobey

   C. TEACHING NEEDS TO BEGIN EARLY...
      1. Long before they are in school with other children
      2. Where peer pressure and poor behavior will encourage them to
         disobey authority
      3. Where even some teachers will encourage them to reject parental
         authority
      -- Before the child is exposed to unsavory influences

[Teaching by a father needs to occur while the child is still in a
position to be shaped and directed in the right way.  Now for another
thought we can glean from Solomon's childhood memories...]

III. "I WAS TAUGHT BY AN ANXIOUS FATHER"

   A. THE ANXIETY OF HIS FATHER IS IMPLIED...
      1. By the exhortations:  "Get wisdom! Get understanding!" - Pro 4:5
      2. By the warnings:  "Do not forget, nor turn away...do not
         forsake" - Pr 4:5-6
      -- His father was anxious regarding his son's learning

   B. FATHERS TODAY NEED TO BE ANXIOUS...
      1. In view of what is going on in schools and society in general
         (violence, sex, drugs)
      2. In light of what is happening in many churches (apathy,
         worldliness, apostasy)
      -- Community and sometimes the church no longer provide supportive
         roles

   C. FATHERS ANXIOUS FOR THEIR CHILDREN...
      1. Will take the time to teach their children when they need it
      2. Will implore God for wisdom in raising their children
      3. Will be willing to sacrifice success and prestige in business
         to spend time with children
      -- Fathers, do we have anxiety over the welfare of our children?

[Finally, consider what Solomon's father was anxious for him to
learn...]

IV. "I WAS TAUGHT THE IMPORTANT THINGS"

   A. HE WAS TAUGHT TO VALUE WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING...
      1. To make wisdom the principal thing in life
         a. "Get wisdom! Get understanding!" - Pr 4:5
         b. "Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore get wisdom. And in
            all your getting, get understanding." - Pr 4:7
      2. To love, exalt, and embrace wisdom
         a. "...Love her, and she will keep you." - Pr 4:6b
         b. "Exalt her, and she will promote you..." - Pr 4:8a
         c. "...She will bring you honor, when you embrace her." - Pro 4:8b
      3. To appreciate the benefits of wisdom
         a. "Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you..." - Pro 4:6a
         b. "She will place on your head an ornament of grace;" - Pro 4:9a
         c. "A crown of glory she will deliver to you." - Pr 4:9c
      -- Solomon's father wanted him to be wise above all else

   B. FATHERS OFTEN STRESS THE TRIVIAL...
      1. Too often, if a father spends any time with his children it is
         on things like:
         a. Sports
         b. Mechanics
      2. Too often, the principal concern of fathers is that their
         children get:
         a. College degrees
         b. High paying jobs
      3. Yet such things are potentially harmful!
         a. Worldly success presents many temptations
         b. Many children have been destroyed by the careers encouraged
            by their parents
      -- Without wisdom and understanding, our children will not be able
         to handle success!

CONCLUSION

1. Solomon could look back on his childhood memories with happy
   recollections...
   a. I was taught by my father
   b. I was taught while tender
   c. I was taught by an anxious father
   d. I was taught the important things

2. Because Solomon's upbringing stressed the value of wisdom...
   a. We should not be surprised of his answer when given a choice
      - 2Ch 1:7-10
   b. Who chose wisdom over riches, honor, and long life, and was
      blessed by all - 2Ch 1:11-12

3. Who would not like a son like Solomon?  To have such a son, we must
   be like his father...
   a. Not perfect, but still "a man after God's own heart" (David)
   b. A man with a similar attitude toward God's word - cf. Ps 19:7-11

Fathers, are we telling our children these words...?

   "Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore get wisdom. And in
   all your getting, get understanding." - Pr 4:7

From Mark Copeland... Fatherly Counsel For Godly Living (Proverbs 3:1-35)

                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

               Fatherly Counsel For Godly Living (3:1-35)

INTRODUCTION

1. Proverbs chapter two presents Solomon as a father encouraging his
   son...
   a. To diligently seek after wisdom - Pr 2:1-4
   b. To appreciate the benefits of diligently seeking wisdom - Pr 2:
      5-22

2. In chapter three, we find Solomon imparting wisdom to his son...
   a. With six keys for a good life - Pr 3:1-12
   b. With praise and illustrations of the value of wisdom - Pr 3:13-24
   c. With six negatives for a wise life - Pr 3:25-35

[I like to think of this chapter as containing "Fatherly Counsel For
Godly Living," and imagine sitting at the feet of Solomon as he imparts
wisdom by inspiration of the Holy Spirit.   We first hear him speak
of...]

I. SIX KEYS FOR A GOOD LIFE

   A. THE KEY TO A LONG AND PEACEFUL LIFE...
      1. Heed the guidance of your father (parents) - Pr 3:1-2
      2. The same thought as expressed by Paul - Ep 6:1-3
      3. Place more stock in this secret to longevity, than those given
         by the world
         a. Diet, exercise, etc., are important
         b. But here is a commandment of God with promise!
      -- Do we honor our parents by giving them careful heed?

   B. THE KEY TO POPULARITY...
      1. Some think the way to popularity is good looks, intelligence,
         or athletic ability
      2. The qualities of truth and mercy are key to lasting popularity
         - Pr 3:3-4
      3. Truth and mercy are more enduring, because they are more
         endearing!
         a. They find great favor in the sight of God - cf. Mt 5:7,37
         b. Likewise in the eyes of men
            1) No one likes a liar
            2) Mercy (compassion, forgiveness) is admired by many
      -- Are we developing the qualities of truth and mercy in our
         lives?

   C. THE KEY TO SUCCESSFUL VENTURES...
      1. Have the Lord "direct" your paths - Pr 3:5-6
         a. The word "direct" means to make smooth or straight
         b. The Lord can help our journey in life go smoother with His
            blessing
      2. To ensure that the Lord directs your paths...
         a. Trust in Him with all your heart - cf. Ps 37:3-6,23-24,
            34-36
         b. Acknowledge Him in all your ways - cf. Jm 4:13-16
         c. Don't lean on your own understanding - cf. Pr 28:26
      -- Do we involve the Lord in our decision making?

   D. THE KEY TO GOOD HEALTH...
      1. Do not be arrogant, fear the Lord, and depart from evil - Pro 3:7-8
      2. Do not underestimate the harmful effects of anxiety and stress
         a. Some authorities suggest that 50% of all illnesses may be
            psychosomatic
         b. Our body's immune system is certainly weakened by anxiety
            and stress
         c. Guilt is a major cause of anxiety, and can weigh heavily on
            our body - Ps 32:1-4
      3. There is also the physical cost of sin
         a. E.g., the effects of drunkenness (cirrhosis of the liver)
         b. E.g., the effects of fornication (STDs)
      4. Yet if we truly fear the Lord...
         a. We will depart from evil - Pr 16:6
         b. We will be freed from much anxiety, stress, and many
            diseases
         c. And that will be good for our bodies! - cf. Pr 14:27
      -- Is developing the fear of the Lord part of our "wellness
         program"?

   E. THE KEY TO PROSPERITY...
      1. Give of your best to the Lord - Pr 3:9-10
      2. In the OT, that involved paying tithes and putting God first
         a. When tithes were not given, it resulted in hardship - Mal 3:
            8-12
         b. When God was not first, likewise - cf. Hag 1:6-11
      3. In the NT, it is not that much different
         a. Put God and His kingdom first, and we enjoy His providential
            care - Mt 6:31-33
         b. Give cheerfully and liberally, and God will empower us to
            give more - 2Co 9:6-9
      -- Do we give to the Lord the "first fruits" of our time, energy,
         and money?

   F. THE KEY TO ACCEPTING THE LORD'S DISCIPLINE...
      1. Value divine chastening as the actions of a loving father - Pro 3:11-12
         a. Even the righteous may be allow to suffer - cf. Job 1:8-22
         b. And God may deem fit to compensate for it even in this life
            - cf. Job 42:10-13
      2. Whatever persecution or hardship God allows, it is for our good
         a. We should expect discipline, if we are His children  - He 12:7-9
         b. But it will produce the fruit of holiness and righteousness,
            if we let it - He 12:10-11
      -- Do we appreciate the positive role of discipline in our lives?

[How blessed many lives would be if people implemented these "Six Keys
For A Good Life."  Perhaps to encourage us to heed such wisdom, Solomon
proceeds to describe...]

II. THE VALUE OF WISDOM

   A. SEEN IN SOLOMON'S PRAISE OF WISDOM...
      1. Provides true happiness for those with wisdom and understanding
         - Pr 3:13
      2. Profits one more than silver and fine gold - Pr 3:14
      3. More precious than rubies, nothing we desire can compare with
         her - Pr 3:15
      4. Offers length of days, riches, and honor - Pr 3:16
      5. Her paths are ways of pleasantness and peace - Pr 3:17
      6. A tree of life to those who take hold of her, happiness for
         those who retain her - Pr 3:18
      -- Do we share Solomon's high estimation of the value of wisdom?

   B. SEEN IN GOD'S USE OF WISDOM...
      1. God used wisdom in His acts of creation - Pr 3:19-20
         a. To create the earth and heavens - Gen 1:1
         b. To break up the depths of sea, and create the clouds above
            - Gen 1:6-9
         c. Its beauty and harmony were made possible by the use of
            wisdom - Pr 8:22-31
      2. Consider the implication for us
         a. The same wisdom is being offered to us! - cf. Jm 1:5-8
         b. To provide our lives with harmony and peace - cf. Jm 3:17-18
      -- Don't we want to have the same divine wisdom guiding our lives?

   C. SEEN IN WHAT WISDOM CAN DO FOR US...
      1. To make our lives "a thing of beauty and joy forever" - Pr 3:
         21-22
         a. By offering wisdom and discretion
         b. Which give "life to your soul and grace (adornment, beauty)
            to your neck"
         c. Just as Jesus desired to give to His disciples - Jn 10:10;
            15:11
      2. To make our lives safe and secure - Pr 3:23-24
         a. To help us walk safely
            1) Our steps will be directed by wisdom
            2) We thus avoid many of the pitfalls experienced by others
               - cf. Pr 2:8; 4:12
         b. To help us sleep securely
            1) For we will not be anxious about what may come
            2) For the Lord will guard His saints - cf. Ps 3:5; 4:8
      -- Don't we want to have lives filled with grace and security?

[With such praise of the value of wisdom, perhaps we will be more open
to what Solomon has to offer.  Sometimes wisdom comes in the form of
various "thou shalt not" directives.  Thus we now have...]

III. SIX NEGATIVES FOR A WISE LIFE

   A. DO NOT BE AFRAID...
      1. Of sudden terror or trouble from the wicked - Pr 3:25
      2. For the Lord will be your confidence and keep you from harm
         - Pr 3:26; cf. 14:26
      3. Besides, fear is indicative of weak faith - cf. Mt 8:26
      -- Let faith replace fear in your life

   B. DO NOT DENY GOOD...
      1. Especially when we owe it and have it - Pr 3:27
      2. As Christians we owe everyone love - cf. Ro 13:8
      3. We should not deny those we can help - cf. 1Jn 3:17
      4. Remember, to know to do good and not do it is sin - Jm 4:17
      -- Do good unto all men as you have opportunity (Ga 6:10)

   C. DO NOT DELAY GOOD...
      1. When it is in your power to do it today - Pr 3:28
      2. Too often, delay is a cover for selfishness, a secret hope the
         matter will be forgotten
      3. We may not have another opportunity - cf. Pr 27:1
      -- Procrastination in doing good is a great evil

   D. DO NOT DEVISE EVIL...
      1. Especially against your neighbor, who lives nearby for safety's
         sake - Pr 3:29
      2. A neighbor expects you to be neighborly, and rightly so
      3. A heart that devises evil is an abomination to the Lord - cf.
         Pr 6:16-18
      -- Think well of your neighbor, that he and God might think well
         of you

   E. DO NOT STRIVE WITOUT CAUSE...
      1. Especially if he has done no harm - Pr 3:30
      2. Left unchecked, strife can easily escalate - cf. Pr 17:14;
         18:6
      3. Strife can easily ruin one's reputation - cf. Pr 25:8-10
      -- Leave vengeance to God, and seek to overcome evil with good (Ro 12:18-21)

   F. DO NOT ENVY OPPRESSORS...
      1. Do not envy an oppressor (lit., a man of violence) , nor choose
         his ways - Pr 3:31
         a. As seen earlier, the oppressor is eventually caught in his
            own snare - cf. Pr 1:15-18
         b. The Lord is the avenger of those who oppress the poor - cf.
            Pr 22:22-23
      2. The Lord will bless the upright and just, the humble and wise
         - Pr 3:32-35
         a. But He will curse wicked and perverse - cf. Pr 21:12
         b. He will scorn the scornful, and shame will be the legacy of
            fools
      -- Don't be jealous of the prosperity of the wicked, they will
         never be as rich as the righteous!

CONCLUSION

1. So we find that "Father Counsel For Godly Living" includes...
   a. Six keys for a good life
   b. A high estimation of the value of wisdom
   b. Six negatives for a wise life

2. This chapter does not begin to exhaust the wisdom God offers...
   a. More will be shared in the discourses to come in chapters 4-9
   b. Much is to be found in the proverbs of chapters 10-31

Of course, Christ is the ultimate repository of wisdom and knowledge
(Col 2:3), and many commentators suggest passages like Pr 3:13-20 to be
veiled references to Jesus.

Are we willing to let the wisdom of God in all its manifestations guide
us in this life...?

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... Benefits Of Diligently Seeking Wisdom (Proverbs 2:1-22)

"THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

Benefits Of Diligently Seeking Wisdom (2:1-22)

INTRODUCTION

1. In chapter one of Proverbs, we began our study by noting...
a. The prologue, stating the purpose of the book - Pr 1:1-6
b. The theme of Proverbs, how the fear of the Lord is the beginning
of knowledge - Pr 1:7
c. The value of listening to one's parents - Pr 1:8-9
d. The danger of evil companionship - Pr 1:10-19
e. The importance of listening to wisdom (Sophia) while there is
opportunity - Pr 1:20-33

2. The second chapter describes the benefits of seeking after wisdom...
a. With an admonition to search for wisdom with diligence - Pr 2:1-4
b. With a list of benefits that will come from such a search - Pr 2:
5-22

[The benefits of seeking after wisdom are found only if we seek with the
proper disposition...]

I. QUALITIES OF A DILIGENT SEARCH FOR WISDOM

A. AS EXPLAINED BY SOLOMON THEN...
1. It requires a willingness - Pr 2:1
a. To be receptive to the words of others
b. To treasure (highly value and remember) commands of wisdom
2. It requires an engagement - Pr 2:2-3
a. Of the ear (willing to hear wisdom)
b. Of the heart (willing to understand)
c. Of the mouth (willing to cry out for discernment and
understanding)
3. It requires a high estimation - Pr 2:4
a. Seeking and searching
b. With the same fervor as seeking for silver and other hidden
treasures
-- Thus a diligent search for wisdom requires an "all out" effort
on our part

B. AS EXPERIENCED BY CHRISTIANS TODAY...
1. It requires hearing the Word of God
a. Note: "incline your ear to wisdom" - Pr 2:2
b. Listening to preachers and teachers carefully (with all
readiness) - Ac 17:11
c. Studying the Bible on your own (searched the Scriptures
daily) - Ac 17:11
2. It requires meditating upon the Word of God
a. Note: "apply your heart to understanding" - Pr 2:2
b. Taking time to reflect and ponder on the Word - cf. Php 4:8
c. Like the Psalmist sung of his meditations - cf. Ps 119:
97-100
3. It requires diligent prayer for wisdom
a. Note: "cry out for discernment...lift up your voice for
understanding" - Pr 2:3
b. We must ask in prayer with faith - Jm 1:5
c. We must persist in our asking - cf. Mt 7:7-11
4. It requires the same effort others expend seeking for material
wealth
a. Note: "seek her as silver...as for hidden treasures" - Pro 2:4
b. In Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and
knowledge - Col 2:3
c. Here's a simple test to see if you are expending the proper
effort to seek wisdom:
1) If you worked as hard for your employer as you do seeking
for God's wisdom...
2) ...would you have your job very long?
-- Finding God's wisdom today requires the same diligence it did
in Solomon's day

[Is the effort worth it? Let's go now to Pr 2:5-22 and find out what
are the...]

II. BENEFITS OF A DILIGENT SEARCH FOR WISDOM

A. KNOWLEDGE OF GOD AND HIS PROTECTION...
1. You will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge
of God
a. That fear of the Lord which is the beginning of knowledge
- Pr 2:5a; cf. Pr 1:7
b. That knowledge of God, whose storehouse of wisdom and
understanding He gives to the upright - Pr 2:5b-7a
2. You will have God's providential protection guiding your life
a. He is a shield to those who walk uprightly - Pr 2:7b; cf.
30:5
b. He guards the paths of justice (which the righteous take)
- Pr 2:8a; cf. Ps 23:3
c. He preserves the way of His saints - Pr 2:8b; cf. Ps 121:
5-8
-- What a blessing to go through life with God at your side!

B. MORAL DISCERNMENT FOR LIVING...
1. You will have great understanding
a. Of righteousness and justice - Pr 2:9a
b. Of equity (fairness) and every good path - Pr 2:9b; cf.
David's prayer, Ps 143:8-10
2. You will have great discretion
a. Once wisdom enters your heart and knowledge is pleasant to
you - Pr 2:10
b. They will preserve and keep you - Pr 2:11; cf. 6:22-23
-- What a blessing to go through life with God's wisdom at your
disposal!

C. DELIVERANCE FROM EVIL MEN...
1. Who speak perverse things - Pr 2:12; e.g., Ac 20:30
2. Who leave upright paths, walk in the ways of darkness - Pro 2:13; e.g., 2Pe 2:20-22
3. Who rejoice in doing evil, delight in the perversity of the
wicked - Pr 2:14; cf. 10:23
4. Whose ways are crooked, and devious in their paths - Pr 2:15;
e.g., 1:10-19
-- Wisdom can deliver us from evil men and their evil ways!

D. DELIVERANCE FROM IMMORAL WOMEN...
1. The seductress flatters with her words - Pr 2:16; e.g., 7:5-21
2. The adulteress who forsakes her husband and covenant with God
- Pr 2:17; cf. Mal 2:14
3. Whose house and paths lead to death, and the place of no return
- Pr 2:18-19; cf. 9:13-18
-- Wisdom can deliver us from immoral women and their destructive
ways!

E. ENABLEMENT FOR RIGHTEOUS LIVING...
1. To walk in the way of goodness and keep to righteous paths
- Pr 2:20; cf. Ps 23:3,6
2. To be upright and blameless, to dwell and remain in the land
- Pr 2:21; cf. Ps 37:3
3. Unlike the wicked and unfaithful, cut off and uprooted from the
earth - Pr 2:22; cf. Ps 37:37-38
-- Wisdom can empower us to live more blessed, if not longer,
lives on this earth!

CONCLUSION

1. Are not the benefits of wisdom worth the effort necessary to obtain
it...?
a. To know God and enjoy His providential care?
b. To obtain discernment for making the right moral choices?
c. To be delivered from the shenanigans of evil men?
d. To be delivered from the seductions of immoral women?
e. To be able to walk in goodness and righteousness, living lives
blessed by God?

2. And what is the effort required to obtain God's wisdom...?
a. To hear the word of God ("incline your ear to wisdom")
b. To meditate on the word of God ("apply your heart to
understanding")
c. To ask in faith for wisdom ("cry out for discernment...lift up
your voice for understanding")
d. To highly value its worth ("seek her as silver...as for hidden
treasures")

With such effort, one will not only find wisdom for daily, practical
living, but will also find Jesus Christ...

"in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge."
- Col 2:3

He is indeed the greatest benefit of diligently seeking wisdom!

From Mark Copeland... Heed The Call Of Sophia (Proverbs 1:20-33)

                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

                   Heed The Call Of Sophia (1:20-33)

INTRODUCTION

1. We have seen that wisdom requires...
   a. Fearing the Lord, so that we heed His Word - Pr 1:7
   b. Respecting our parents, so that we listen to their advice - Pr 1:
      8-9
   c. Not heeding friends who have us join them in doing evil - Pr 1:
      10-19

2. At this point, Solomon personifies wisdom as a woman...
   a. A motif used several times in the first nine chapters - e.g., Pro 8:1-5; 9:1-6
   b. A virtuous woman, later contrasted with the foolish woman who
      leads astray - Pr 9:13-18

[In Greek, the word for wisdom is sophia.  To emphasize wisdom's
personification as a woman, we'll use the name "Sophia" as we examine
the text for our lesson (Pr 1:20-33).  Notice first of all...]

I. SOPHIA'S PLEA

   A. MADE PUBLICLY... (1:20-21)
      1. She calls aloud outside, in the open squares
      2. She cries in the streets, at the gates of the city
      -- Wisdom is not hidden, but reaches out to all who will listen
         - cf. Pr 8:1-5

   B. TO THOSE WHO NEED HER... (1:22)
      1. Simple ones, who love simplicity - the morally naive, easily
         influenced by others
      2. Scorners, who delight in their scorning - the cynical and
         defiant, prone to ridicule others
      3. Fools, who hate knowledge - those hardened to the point of
         hating that which is good
      -- People caught up in varying degrees of hardness of heart
         - e.g., Ep 4:17-19

   C. BE FILLED WITH HER WISDOM... (1:23)
      1. Turn at her rebuke - respond to her warning, and repent
      2. She will pour out her spirit on them, she will make known her
         words to them
      -- Wisdom stands ready to forgive and bless those who open their
         hearts and minds, much like God is for those who repent and
         turn - cf. Ac 3:19

[The grace of God is clearly seen in Sophia's plea for all to heed her
call for wisdom.  Those caught up in varying degrees of hardness of
heart are given opportunities to repent.  But such opportunities do not
last forever.  Thus we now read of...]

II. SOPHIA'S WARNING

   A. DIRECTED TO THOSE WHO REFUSED TO HEAR... (1:24-25)
      1. Who refused her call, disregarded her outstretched hand
      2. Who disdained her counsel, refused her rebuke
      3. Just like Israel rejected her prophets - cf. 2Ch 36:15-16
      -- Will we be like those who refuse to heed the Lord's wisdom and
         warnings?

   B. THERE WILL BE NO HELP WHEN CALAMITY COMES... (1:26-30)
      1. She will laugh and mock when terror and destruction comes like
         a storm
      2. Despite their cries for help, it will be too late
      3. Because they hated knowledge when they had the opportunity
      4. They did not choose the fear of the Lord (the beginning of
         wisdom)
      5. They had rejected her counsel and despised her rebuke
      -- Heed wisdom is when it is being offered, not when it is too
         late! - cf.  Isa 55:6-7

   C. THEY WILL SUFFER THE FATE OF THEIR FOLLY... (1:31)
      1. They will eat the fruit of their own way
      2. They will be full of their own fancies (foolish counsel)
      -- Contrast of the righteous in times of trial to that of the
         wicked - Pr 3:25-26; 10:24-25

[Too many people wait until it is too late to do any good.  To benefit
from the value of wisdom, we need to learn from her while we still have
time.  Finally, let's consider...]

III. SOPHIA'S SUMMARY

   A. DESTRUCTION COMES UPON THE SIMPLE AND FOOLS... (1:32)
      1. Because they turn away from the true wisdom God has to offer
      2. Because they allowed their complacency (regarding wisdom) to
         destroy them
      -- Will we be naive and foolish when it comes to receiving God's
         wisdom?

   B. SAFETY AND SECURITY ARE FOR THOSE WILLING TO HEAR... (1:33)
      1. Who are willing to listen to wisdom - cf. Pr 8:32-35
      2. Whose fear of the Lord will enable them to fear no evil - cf.
         Pr 3:21-26
      -- Are we willing to listen and heed the wisdom God offers?

CONCLUSION

1. From lady "Sophia", we learn that wisdom is a lot like the grace of
   God...
   a. Opportunity to obtain it does not last forever
   b. The time will come when it is too late

2. Today is the day to learn wisdom from God...
   a. Just like today is the day of salvation - cf. 2Co 6:1-2
   b. Who will we be like:  those who are simple and fools?  Or those
      willing to hear God's wisdom?

How we respond to "Sophia" reveals our true character and ultimate
end...

   "How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? For
   scorners delight in their scorning, And fools hate knowledge.

   Turn at my rebuke; Surely I will pour out my spirit on you;
   I will make my words known to you."
                                                   - Pr 1:22-23

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... Beware Of Evil Companions (Proverbs 1:10-19)

                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

                  Beware Of Evil Companions (1:10-19)

INTRODUCTION

1. In our study of Proverbs thus far, we have seen that wisdom
   requires...
   a. Fearing the Lord, so that we heed His Word - Pr 1:7
   b. Respecting our parents, so that we listen to their advice - Pr 1:
      8-9

2. What about our friends...?
   a. Our peers with whom we spend so much time?
   b. Might they not be a source of good counsel, i.e., wisdom?

[Indeed they can (cf. Pr 27:9).  But the wrong kind of friends must be
avoided.  This is illustrated in our text for this study (Pr 1:10-19)
which contains...]

I. FATHERLY WARNING CONCERNING EVIL COMPANIONS

   A. DO NOT CONSENT TO THEIR COUNSEL...
      1. A father’s advice:  "If sinners entice you, do not consent"
         - Pr 1:10
      2. Especially when they seek to entice you to do evil - Pr 1:
         11-12
      3. When they tempt you with promises of easy gain - Pr 1:13-14
      -- The example is enticement to murder and robbery

   B. DO NOT WALK WITH THEM...
      1. Keep away from such "friends" who are quick to do evil - Pr 1:
         15-16
      2. Their efforts are ultimately in vain - Pr 1:17
      3. Eventually they will pay with their own lives - Pr 1:18-19
      -- Such is the way of greed; it destroys those who possess it

[While the example in our text pertains to murder and robbery, the
principle holds to true to all kinds of sinful conduct.  So let’s expand
on the lesson to be learned here...]

II. THE DANGER OF EVIL COMPANIONS

   A. THEY PERSUADE THROUGH ENTICEMENT...
      1. Like the serpent tempted Eve, sinful friends will appeal to:
         a. The lust of the flesh ("good for food")
         b. The lust of the eyes ("pleasant to the eyes")
         c. The pride of life ("desirable to make one wise") - cf. Gen 3:6
      2. Evil friends will offer easy gain
         a. Such as wealth without work
         b. Such as pleasure without commitment
         c. Such as companionship without cost
      -- It sounds so good and easy, doesn’t it?

   B. THEY IGNORE THE COST OF SIN...
      1. That sin destroys those who possess it
         a. So called "friends" will eventually turn on one another
         b. If they will sin with you, how do you know they won’t sin
            against you?
         c. They will be friends only as long as it benefits themselves
      2. That sin eventually exposes those who continue in it
         a. "Be sure your sin will find you out" - Num 32:23
         b. Sin requires lies and deception; eventually one gets caught
            in their web of lies
         c. Sin often carries a physical price that cannot be hidden
            1) Addiction (drugs)
            2) Disease (STDs)
            3) Unwanted pregnancy
      -- Evil companions never talk about the cost of sin, do they?

[Finally, let's glean from our text what is...]

III. THE SOLUTION TO EVIL COMPANIONS

   A. DON’T LISTEN TO THEM...
      1. "Do not consent..." - Pr 1:10
      2. What they promise they cannot really deliver, at least for long
      3. The truly blessed man does not walk in their counsel - Ps 1:1
      -- Be wise enough not to heed their enticing words

   B. STAY AWAY FROM THEM...
      1. "Do not walk in the way with them, keep your foot from their
         path" - Pr 1:15
      2. Do not let them be your companions - Pr 13:20
      3. Especially if they are unbelievers - 2Co 6:14-18
      -- Be even wiser to avoid letting them become your companions

CONCLUSION

1. This is not to say that we cannot try to save them...
   a. We must be separate from the world, but we cannot isolate
      ourselves - cf. 1Co 5:9-11
   b. Even Jesus was a friend to sinners - Mt 11:19

2. But we must be honest with ourselves...
   a. Do we influence them more than they do to us?
   b. If not, then we should stay away until we are strong enough to be
      a positive influence

What we have studied in Pr 1:10-19 perhaps is best summarized by the
apostle Paul:

      Do not be deceived: "Evil company corrupts good habits."
                                                - 1Co 15:33

To be wise, we must know who to listen to (God, parents, and good
friends), and who not to listen to (anyone who would entice us to do
evil)...