How does Proverbs 22:20 connect with Proverbs 1:5 on gaining wisdom? The Heart of Proverbs 22:20 “Have I not written for you thirty sayings of counsel and knowledge?” (Proverbs 22:20) • God’s wisdom is permanently recorded—ready for repeated reading. • “Counsel and knowledge” target both decision-making and understanding. • The thirty sayings (22:17–24:22) are a concrete delivery of that wisdom. The Call of Proverbs 1:5 “Let the wise listen and gain instruction, and the discerning acquire wise counsel.” (Proverbs 1:5) • Even the already wise need to keep learning. • Gaining wisdom requires active listening and intentional acquisition. • The verse sets the tone for the whole book: keep pursuing God’s insight. How the Two Verses Interlock 1. Provision vs. Reception – 22:20: wisdom has been written. – 1:5: we must listen and acquire. 2. Identical Goals – 22:20: “counsel and knowledge.” – 1:5: “instruction” and “wise counsel.” 3. Framework of Proverbs – 1:5 opens the book with a call to learn. – 22:20 reminds us halfway through that the material for learning is right here. 4. Ongoing Growth – 1:5 urges lifelong learning. – 22:20 supplies fresh content so growth never stalls. Why This Matters • Scripture doesn’t just commend wisdom; it provides it (2 Timothy 3:15-17). • Because it is written, we can read, review, and test our choices (Psalm 119:105). • Our role: – Listen—open the Word daily. – Gain—meditate, memorize, take notes (Psalm 1:2). – Apply—turn counsel into action (James 1:22). Practical Steps • Read one of the thirty sayings each day; record a takeaway. • Before each reading, recall Proverbs 1:5: “Lord, help me listen and acquire.” • Revisit your notes monthly and track how God’s wisdom shapes decisions. Supporting Scriptures |
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