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The Benefits of Wisdom
Focus Text: Proverbs 3:1-18
Objective: By the end of this lesson my students should be able to identify several benefits of true wisdom.
Central Truth: The path of wisdom leads to satisfaction in life and purity in character.
I. The Value of Obedience (Prov. 3:1-4)
II. The Value of Trust (Prov. 3:5-12)
III. The Value of Wisdom (Prov. 3:13-18)
Icebreakers
Newly formed groups or groups coming out of hibernation can be fairly dry ground when it comes to conversing and discussing the Scriptures. Silly games or trivial tidbits of information can serve to open up excellent group discussions. By priming the pump with some small question or short game, a teacher can kindle relationships, break down social barriers, and loosen tight lips so that when it comes time to study God’s Word, the group is open and ready to discuss. There are lots of resources online if you need ideas for icebreakers.
Elusiveness of Wisdom
Read Job 28:20-22
“Seeing it is hid from the eyes of all living, and kept close from the fowls of the air” (v. 21).
My dictionary says that wisdom is “accumulated philosophical or scientific learning.” Much effort, time, and money are spent to gain such wisdom, yet it seems the use of it would determine if it really is what it is said to be! I think of “wisdom” as the practical use of knowledge and insight. That makes wisdom more elusive, for simply knowing a lot has not always resulted in good choices. An ongoing question, though often unvoiced, is “How does one gain wisdom?” Earlier in this chapter Job asked, “Where shall wisdom be found?” (v. 12). In the New Testament James identified two kinds of wisdom. He said that worldly wisdom, which does not include God, “is earthly, sensual, devilish” resulting in “every evil work” (3:15, 16). Then he said, “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated.” In chapter 1 he said, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God” (v. 5). “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Prov. 9:10)! (Rodney B. Stearns)
Wisdom ascribe, and might, and praise, To God, who lengthens out our days; O may we all the time redeem, And henceforth live and die to him! — Charles Wesley
To leave God out leaves proclaimed wisdom in doubt.
The Gift of Wisdom
Focus Text: Proverbs 2:1-15
Objective: By the end of this lesson my students should be able to define the biblical concept of wisdom.
Central Truth: God’s gift of true wisdom is greater than earthly wisdom and enables us to live successful Christian lives.
I. Seek Wisdom (Prov. 2:1-5)
II. Wisdom — God's Gift (Prov. 2:6-9)
III. Wisdom — Its Rewards (Prov. 2:10-15)
Conversation
What do you do when someone is dominating the conversation and seems to have all the answers? Here are a couple of things to try. First, you can just randomly ask people for answers. It will increase engagement, because no one will be certain when they will be called on to answer. Another idea would be to go around the room in an order that you pre-determine. This will allow an opportunity for the person who likes to share to participate without taking up all the time.
Faith That Rewards
Read Romans 16:25-27
“Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began” (v. 25).
“I have a secret, but no one will know what it is until Christmas!” Perhaps you’ve been told that or told someone else. It creates a sense of anticipation, looking forward to the revelation of that secret! From the beginning of time, God promised His people a Savior. He didn’t tell them when they would receive this promise, but left them with the anticipation, even the longing, for this revelation. Down through the ages, the prophets spoke of it, dreamed and planned for it, but they passed before He came to earth. We have been privileged to have the Scriptures to verify that Jesus did, in fact, come to earth,and lived and died to purchase our eternal inheritance. We have the conditional promise of eternal life and a place in heaven. If we walk with Him and allow ourselves to become established in the gospel of Christ, we can enjoy that reward! Aren’t you thankful for that? (Sue Colburn)
After pain and anguish, after toil and care, We shall see the King some day; Through the endless ages joy and blessing share, We shall see the King some day. — Lewis Ellis Jones
Our Faith will have eternal rewards!