SCRIPTURE: PROVERBS 9
MEMORY VERSES:
“Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse. Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you. Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning.” (Proverbs 9:7-9)
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)
INVITATIONS OF WISDOM AND OF FOLLY (vs. 1-18)
Wisdom is inviting you to her house. She prepares meat and wine on the table. She sends her maid to invite you to her house to eat and drink. She promises you life. Will you accept her invitation?
A wise man wants to be taught for more understanding. He loves to learn from rebukes. But when you correct a mocker, he will be insulted. When you rebuke a mocker, he will hate you.
People who abuse their bodies with sin will cut their lives short. People who follow wisdom can add years to their lives.
THOUGHTS:
CONTRAST BETWEEN WISDOM AND FOLLY:
- Wisdom is a responsible woman while folly is a prostitute.
- Wisdom appeals in the mind while folly in the senses.
- Wisdom brings everlasting satisfaction while folly gives temporary pleasures.
The way you respond to criticism will tell whether you are a wise person or a folly. A wise man listens to what is said while a folly replied with a question and put down a clever retort.
Beware of sinful behavior by eating stolen food of folly. Do not take forbidden fruit or you may be deceived to fall into depth of the grave.