How can we "say to wisdom, 'You are my sister'" in daily life? Setting the Scene Proverbs 7 is a father’s urgent warning to his son about the seductive pull of sin. Verse 4 gives the preventive strategy: “Say to wisdom, ‘You are my sister,’ and call understanding your kinsman”. In ancient Israel, a sister or close relative was someone you honored, protected, and kept near. Treating wisdom that way keeps temptation at arm’s length. A Closer Look at Proverbs 7:4 • “Say” – an intentional declaration, not a casual wish. • “Wisdom” – skill for godly living, rooted in the fear of the LORD (Proverbs 9:10). • “My sister” – a bond of daily familiarity, affection, and loyalty. • “Understanding your kinsman” – a dependable relative who walks with you everywhere. What It Means to Call Wisdom “My Sister” 1. Constant access: a sibling is always part of the household. 2. Deep affection: you value her company, not merely her advice. 3. Protective instinct: you defend the relationship from anything that would pull you apart. Daily Ways to Treat Wisdom Like Family • Begin the morning conversation – Read a short passage of Scripture before any other input. – “Oh, how I love Your law! All day long it is my meditation” (Psalm 119:97). • Keep wisdom’s number on speed dial – Whisper a quick prayer for insight whenever a choice appears. – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously” (James 1:5). • Memorize family sayings – Store key verses that address recurring temptations. – “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). • Talk about her in normal conversation – Share biblical principles with friends and children in everyday language. – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another” (Colossians 3:16). • Guard her honor – Reject entertainment, advice, or relationships that mock God’s standards. – “Do not conform to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). • Follow her lead immediately – Act on conviction at once; delayed obedience cools affection. – “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). • Celebrate family victories – Thank God when wisdom spares you from regret. – “The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart” (Psalm 19:8). The Result Keeping wisdom as close as a beloved sister builds an inner defense system. When temptation knocks, a familiar voice answers the door, reminding you who you are and Whose you are. |
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