In Proverbs 9, we see that two voices call out to us today: wisdom and folly. Both promise us something beautiful, life and learning and joy. But in the end, wisdom will grow us, keep us, and give us life. Folly, temptation it promises us something good and sweet, but in the end, it will destroy us. Today, each of these voices will call to us. Which voice will we respond to?

Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he’ll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God’s Word.

If you’d like to receive this daily reflection on your phone, text @39110 to 81010 to sign up.

Click on the image above or this link to watch today’s video.

You can read today’s passage here.

You can podcast this reflection here. You can subscribe through Spotify or Apple Podcasts as well.

Or, if you’d like to read the transcript of the video, keep reading!

Good morning! It’s a pleasure to be with you as we delve into the book of Proverbs during our time together. Today, our focus is on Proverbs Chapter 9. It’s been enriching to explore these teachings together, and I’ve received positive feedback from many of you who appreciate the practical wisdom found in Proverbs. I share that sentiment; the advice it imparts is both timeless and beneficial.

Chapter 9 can be divided into three distinct sections, each with its unique emphasis. Let’s briefly overview each part. In verses 1 through 6, the concept of wisdom preparing a feast is presented. The imagery vividly describes wisdom building her house with seven pillars, slaughtering animals, mixing wine, and setting a table. The call goes out to the simple and those lacking sense to partake in this feast, encouraging them to leave immaturity behind and walk in the way of insight.

Reflecting on this, it’s amusing how verse four seems to say, “You that are simple, turn in here,” and it makes one ponder, “Am I simple? Well, if so, why not join?” This seemingly lighthearted moment ties into a broader truth about wisdom: it begins with the fear of the Lord. Humility plays a significant role in wisdom, acknowledging our limitations and understanding that there’s much we don’t know. The Dunning-Kruger effect is a pertinent illustration, revealing that passionate assertions may not always indicate true knowledge.

Moving on to verses 7 through 12, often referred to as “My Bible Calls General Maximus,” we encounter practical advice for daily living. The repeated emphasis on the fear of the Lord as the starting point of wisdom is noteworthy. The wise, when corrected, embrace the rebuke and grow wiser. This section underscores the importance of surrounding oneself with truth-speakers who can offer constructive criticism. The ability to accept correction is a hallmark of the path to wisdom.

Finally, the chapter concludes with verses 13 through 18, exploring “Folly’s Invitation and Promise.” Here, a sharp contrast is drawn between the invitations of wisdom and folly. While wisdom beckons to a feast of knowledge, learning, and life, folly entices with stolen pleasures that may seem sweet but lead to destruction. The analogy of discipline promising short-term pain for long-term life is a powerful reminder that choosing the path of wisdom requires effort and sacrifice.

In closing, the question posed is crucial: Which voice will we heed today? Both wisdom and folly call out to us, promising different outcomes. Will we succumb to the allure of immediate pleasure, or will we embrace the discipline that leads to lasting life? As we continue our journey through Proverbs, let’s reflect on these timeless teachings. I look forward to our exploration of Chapter 10 tomorrow. Thank you for sharing this morning with me, and I wish you a wonderful day and an excellent rest of the week. See you tomorrow as we delve further into Proverbs.