What does "ears to words of knowledge" mean in Proverbs 23:12? Setting the Verse in Context Proverbs 23:12 states, “Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.” The book of Proverbs is a collection of Spirit-inspired, practical sayings designed to shape godly character. Verse 12 stands in a section warning young people against destructive paths (vv. 9-21). In that flow, Solomon pauses to issue a positive command: open up—both heart and ears—to wisdom. Defining “Words of Knowledge” • “Words” points to verbal instruction—spoken or written teaching rooted in God’s truth. • “Knowledge” (Hebrew daʿat) refers to skillful, God-given understanding that aligns with reality (see Proverbs 2:6). Taken together, “words of knowledge” are reliable, God-honoring teachings that lead to righteous living. What It Means to Give Our Ears • Listen attentively—no half-hearted, distracted hearing (compare Proverbs 4:20). • Submit humbly—ears that truly “give” themselves are ready to obey (James 1:22). • Filter carefully—ears must discern sound doctrine from empty chatter (Proverbs 14:7). • Persist consistently—ongoing, daily exposure builds wisdom’s foundation (Proverbs 8:34). Practical Ways to Lean In • Read Scripture aloud; let your own voice engage your ears (Romans 10:17). • Attend faithful preaching that expounds the text verse by verse (2 Timothy 4:2). • Memorize key passages; rehearse them during chores or commutes (Psalm 119:11). • Seek counsel from mature believers; invite correction (Proverbs 19:20). • Use trusted audio Bibles or podcasts while driving or exercising. • Eliminate competing noise—digital distractions can drown out wisdom. Why It Matters Today • Wisdom guards against cultural deception (Colossians 2:8). • Listening reshapes desires, aligning the heart with God’s will (Romans 12:2). • Ears attuned to truth empower speech seasoned with grace (Ephesians 4:29). • The habit equips parents, teachers, and mentors to pass on sound doctrine (2 Timothy 1:13-14). Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 18:15 — “The discerning heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it.” • Isaiah 55:3 — “Incline your ear and come to Me; listen, so that your soul may live.” • Matthew 13:16 — “Blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear.” • Hebrews 2:1 — “We must pay closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away.” Summary To “give our ears to words of knowledge” is to make an intentional, obedient habit of listening to God-centered instruction. When the heart is set toward instruction and the ears are tuned to knowledge, wisdom takes root and bears fruit in every area of life. |
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