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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 107

STUDY 107

Text: Proverbs 14
13 July 2003

Dear Parents,

THE SIMPLE AND PRUDENT COMPARED
We have a series of comparisons in the following texts. The subject of comparison is “The simple versus the prudent”. This is a constant theme that comes up time and again in the Book of Proverbs.

The simple believes every word,
But the prudent considers well his steps…
The simple inherit folly,
But the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

Proverbs 14:15,18

THE SIMPLE

1. The “simple-minded” – A working definition

The term “simple-minded” can be used in a number of ways:-

a) It can be used to refer to a fool.

b) But it can also be used to describe a person with no guile, and no driving ambitions to fulfil.

c) The text here uses the term to describe a foolish person. The individual concerned is contrasted with the prudent.

2. The ways of the simple

a) He is essentially a careless and lazy person.

b) He does not check things out as he should.

c) He accepts all that is told to him.

3. The end results!

The simple is foolish and for his reward, he inherits and obtains even more folly!

THE PRUDENT

1. The prudent man is a careful one

a) The prudent man will take the trouble to check things out.

b) He will carefully consider his ways indeed.

2. The prudent man uses his mind wisely

a) Obviously he employs knowledge.

b) His reward is that he would be “crowned” with knowledge!

INSPIRE CHILDREN TO LOVE KNOWLEDGE
How do we ensure that our children would not become “simple”? Inspire them to love knowledge. Prudence would follow soon after!

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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