E100: 045 | Character of Wisdom

"Today in Proverbs Chapter 16 to chapter 18 verse 24 we see themes of Wisdom and Folly. Using our words for positive ends is one of the most significant wise things we can do. A humble, content life is far more satisfying than grabbing for all the glory we can get. Don’t forget God’s will and human action. God expects us to use our talents and abilities, but to trust the final results to him." (New Zealand's Rhema Radio)

Read Proverbs 16:1-18:24 | (ESV)

Some characteristics of those who are wise according to the book of Proverbs:

Humility

When pride comes, shame follows.
But wisdom comes to those who are not proud. (11:2)

Know & Respect God

If you really want to become wise, you must begin by having respect for the Lord. To know the Holy One is to gain understanding. (9:10)

Delight in wisdom

A foolish person finds pleasure in doing evil things.
But a man who has understanding takes delight in wisdom. (10:23)

Seeks wisdom

It is much better to get wisdom than gold.
It is much better to choose understanding than silver. (16:16)

Say to wisdom, "You are my sister.
Call understanding a member of your family. (7:4)

Choose companions carefully

Anyone who walks with wise people grows wise.
But a companion of foolish people suffers harm. (13:20)

Blessing to others

My child, if your heart is wise,
my heart will be glad. (23:15)

Careful with words

Thoughtless words cut like a sword.
But the tongue of wise people brings healing. (12:18)

The hearts of wise people guide their mouths.
Their words make people want to learn more. (16:23)

Self-control

The best food and olive oil are stored up in the houses of wise people.
But a foolish man eats up everything he has. (21:20)

A foolish person lets his anger run wild.
But a wise person keeps himself under control. (29:11)

Seek wise counsel

Wisdom is too high for anyone who is foolish.
He has nothing to say when people meet at the city gate to conduct business. (24:6)

Listen and learn

Let wise people listen and add to what they have learned.
Let those who understand what is right get guidance. (1:5)

The way of a foolish person seems right to him.
But a wise person listens to advice. (12:15)

Conciliatory

Those who make fun of others stir up a city.
But wise people turn anger away. (29:8)

Hard worker

A child who gathers crops in summer is wise.
But a child who sleeps at harvest time brings shame. (10:5)

You people who don't want to work, think about the ant!
Consider its ways and be wise! (6:6)

Low view of wealth

Don't wear yourself out to get rich.
Be wise enough to say no.
When you take even a quick look at riches, they are gone.
They grow wings and fly away into the sky like an eagle. (23:4-5)

Kindness

Anyone who crushes poor people makes fun of their Maker.
But anyone who is kind to those in need honors God. (14:31)

A friend loves at all times.
He is there to help when trouble comes. (17:17)

Honesty

An honest answer
is like a kiss on the lips. (24:26)

An honest witness tells the truth.
But a dishonest witness tells lies. (12:17)

Teachable

Anyone who loves to be trained loves knowledge.
Anyone who hates to be corrected is stupid. (12:1)

Kind to animals

Those who do what is right take good care of their animals.
But the kindest acts of those who do wrong are mean. (12:10)

Slow to anger

Anyone who is patient has great understanding.
But anyone who gets angry quickly shows how foolish he is. (14:29)

I am working through the E100 Bible Reading Challenge again. You can learn more about my journey and read the other posts completed so far at this link. I encourage you to stop back soon to read another passage.

If you are interested in staying up to date with these posts via email go ahead and sign up here. Also don't forget to share your own thoughts on this passage in the comment section below or on the Facebook page.



photo credit