Wisdom of God’s People (Proverbs 1; 3-4)
Dear families,
God’s gift of wisdom to King Solomon did not end with Solomon; he shared this wisdom through his proverbs. Solomon wrote in Proverbs 1:2 that these words were for learning wisdom and discipline, understanding insightful sayings, receiving instruction, and teaching the inexperienced. Through all the insight he gained as the wisest man on earth, he came back to this truth: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7).
What does it mean to fear the Lord? How can we know that we have true wisdom?
Fearing the Lord means honoring Him as holy and revering Him as God alone. Solomon recognized the folly of a life lived in his own strength and wisdom. He knew that pursuing the Lord through genuine trust and obedience is the only way to live a life that matters. He beckoned readers to trust in the Lord with all their heart and not depend on their own understanding. The proverbs reveal to us that wisdom is not a mere intellectual exercise. Wisdom is a Person, Jesus, and by trusting in Him we find salvation.
Many proverbs offer practical guidance for interacting with the world: avoiding peer pressure, pursuing the path of peace, and treating others fairly. However, all of the practical guidance is grounded in following God's wisdom above any earthly knowledge. Solomon wrote of the favor God’s people experience when they cling to His ways above all else.
Consider your relationship to godly wisdom. Reflect on the seasons of life that have led you closest to the Lord and in obedience to Him. Remember God’s generosity and kindness toward His followers: “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God—who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him” (James 1:5).
Invite the children in your care to see the beauty of pursuing God’s ways and trusting Him, both for the promise of His presence and the wisdom He provides in our everyday lives. Life everlasting begins when we come to faith in Him!
Check out The Gospel Project At Home for resources designed to help you lead a family worship experience as well as suggestions for morning and evening prayer times and family activities.
FAMILY TALKING POINTS
CHRIST CONNECTION
This is the big idea of how this week’s Bible story points to Jesus.
Babies & Toddlers: Solomon taught that people should trust in God. Jesus trusted in God and followed His plan to rescue sinners. When we trust in Jesus, we have forgiveness and life with God forever.
Younger Preschool: Solomon taught that people should trust in God. Jesus trusted in God His Father and followed His plan to rescue sinners. When we trust in Jesus, we have forgiveness and life with God forever.
Older Preschool: Solomon taught that people should trust in God. Jesus trusted in God, His Father, and followed His plan by coming to earth to die on the cross for our sins. Jesus rose again. When we trust Him, we have forgiveness and life with God forever.
Kids: Solomon’s proverbs encourage God’s people to trust in the Lord. Jesus trusted in God His Father throughout His life on earth, all the way to His death on the cross for our sins. He rose again and continues to lead us to love and trust God the Father.
BIG PICTURE QUESTION & ANSWER
This is an important biblical truth that your child will encounter each week of this unit.
Younger Preschool: What does God know? God knows everything.
Older Preschool: What does God know? God knows everything.
Kids: What does God know? God knows everything about the past, present, and future.
KEY PASSAGE
This is a Bible verse that relates to what your child will encounter each week of this unit.
Babies & Toddlers: Obey the LORD and do what is right. Proverbs 3:7
Younger Preschool: Fear the LORD and turn from evil. Proverbs 3:7
Older Preschool: Fear the LORD and turn away from evil. Proverbs 3:7
Kids: Don’t be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil. Proverbs 3:7
** Next week: The Kingdom Divided (1 Kings 12-13)