PROVERBS: Lesson 2

Why study Proverbs?

Proverbs is devoted to the development of character more than any other book in the Bible. The highest goal of the Christian is to become like Christ in character. 

"For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His son..." (Romans 8:29)

The greatest need in the Christian community today is godly character! A person with godly character is not merely one who professes to believe certain truths, but one who practices them (James 2:14-26).

1. Godly character is influenced and developed by our choices! Daniel was a good example of this when he "...resolved not to defile himself..." in Babylon (Daniel 1:8). It comes down to integrity.

"The integrity of the upright guides them." (Proverbs 11:3a) "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out." (Proverbs 10:9)

2. Godly character is the result of the Holy Spirit's work of sanctification. It is the constant manifestation of Jesus in the believer's life where purity of a heart for God (Matthew 5:8) becomes purity in action.

3. Godly character is strengthened through trials.

"We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." (Romans 5:3-4)

4. Godly character is developed by controlling our thoughts (Philippians 4:8), practicing Christian virtues (2 Peter 1:5-6), guarding our hearts (Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 15:18-20), and keeping good company (1 Corinthians 15:33).

5. Godly character sets a good example for others to follow.

"Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us." (Titus 2:7-8)

As we develop godly character, we are then able to discern character in the lives of others. One of the greatest things you can teach your children is how to recognize character in another individual. It will protect them from being influenced by the wicked, violent, dishonest, and gossipers (Proverbs 1:8-19; 29:24; 17:17). It will help them find the right mate (see slide 13). As a parent, there is no greater joy than when your children walk in truth (3 John 4).

The more we learn of God and develop His character in our lives, the more satisfaction, contentment, and identity we have in our relationship with Him. It is then that we can understand the essence of 2 Chronicles 7:14 and the power within:

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I [let them] hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."

God waits for us to humbly come to Him in intercession for those He has placed on our hearts. There is no greater work than the miraculous work of intercessory prayer--a great opportunity to partner with God and experience a supernatural miracle through prayer!