Take It or Lose It

(Pro 1:3 KJV) To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;

We can “receive” (3947) “instruction” (4148) in how we act. This is a goal of Proverbs. This assumes that we can change. This takes the previous verse and reinforces it. Much can be offered but it is useless unless we bring it in. Every once in awhile I arrive home and find a package on my front porch. I don’t just leave it outside basking in the knowledge that it has arrived. I don’t bring it in and put it in a closet. I bring it in and open it so that I can have the benefit of what is inside. It doesn’t help to sit each week and listen to the best preacher in the world if I don’t make use of the teaching.

We are expected to show “wise behavior” (7919a). Wisdom is more than words and thoughts. This is a different word for wise than is used in the previous verse. This word has the sense of prudence. Godliness is not just thinking the right thoughts it is also acting the right way. We should look at the root meaning of prudence and glory in being called a “prude.”