What does Proverbs 9:9 teach about the value of lifelong learning? Setting the Verse Before Us “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will increase his learning.” — Proverbs 9:9 What the Verse Says—Phrase by Phrase • “Give instruction to a wise man” – Wisdom welcomes correction; teachability marks true wisdom. • “and he will be wiser still” – Growth is not capped; even the wise can—and should—expand. • “teach a righteous man” – Moral integrity and teachability belong together. • “and he will increase his learning” – Ongoing, measurable progress is expected. Key Principles About Lifelong Learning • Wisdom is not a destination; it is a continuing journey. • Righteous character fuels a hunger for more truth, not complacency. • Every new insight compounds previous understanding, producing exponential growth. • Being teachable is itself evidence of wisdom; refusing instruction exposes folly (cf. Proverbs 12:1). The Pattern Across Scripture • Psalm 119:97–100 — Love for God’s law makes the psalmist “wiser than my enemies… than all my teachers.” • Matthew 11:29 — Jesus invites, “Take My yoke… and learn from Me,” portraying discipleship as lifelong learning. • Colossians 1:10 — Believers are to be “growing in the knowledge of God.” • 2 Peter 3:18 — “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Practical Ways to Live It Out 1. Pursue daily Scripture intake; wisdom grows as the Word abides in us. 2. Welcome correction from godly mentors; feedback is fertilizer for growth. 3. Read broadly within biblical, theological, and practical Christian literature. 4. Memorize and meditate on verses that expose blind spots. 5. Engage in regular fellowship where iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). 6. Apply new insight immediately; obedience cements learning. |
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