Parenting by the Book
STUDY 63
Text: Proverbs 9:1-6
8 September 2002
Dear Parents,
THE HOUSE OF WISDOM
The first nine chapters may be described as being devoted to extol the virtues of wisdom. Let us consider how the writer concluded his findings concerning the subject of wisdom.
Wisdom has built her house,
She has hewn out her seven pillars;
She has slaughtered her meat,
She has mixed her wine,
She has also furnished her table.
She has sent out her maidens,
She cries out from the highest places of the city.Proverbs 9:1-3
Wisdom is portrayed as living in a beautiful and large house. A party scene is being described here. The choicest food and drink are placed for all her guests to partake of. Wisdom is indeed well described as being a successful person. Let us recall these words found in an earlier text.
I love those who love me,
And those who seek me diligently will find me.
Riches and honour are with me,
Enduring riches and righteousness.
My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold,
And my revenue than choice silver.Proverbs 8:17-19
THE INVITATION TO DINE IN THE HOUSE OF WISDOM
Who are invited to dine at the House of Wisdom? Who are the privileged invited guests?
‘Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!’
As for him who lacks understanding, she says to him,
‘Come, eat of my bread
And drink of the wine I have mixed.
Forsake foolishness and live,
And go in the way of understanding.’Proverbs 9:4-6
The meaning of the text is clear! Anyone, and everyone is invited to the House of Wisdom. The person who is “simple” and the person “who lacks understanding” are invited! No one is without an invitation! All may come to the House of Wisdom.
DETERMINED TO PURSUE WISDOM
Have we received our invitation to go to the House of Wisdom? Have we replied yet? How have we feasted from the furnished table in the House of Wisdom? Let us determine that we would go the way of understanding… as parents!
Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie