What is the meaning of Proverbs 1:5? Let the wise listen and gain instruction • Wisdom is not a finish line; it is a lifelong pursuit. Even those already called “wise” are urged to keep their ears open. Proverbs 9:9 echoes, “Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still,” showing that growth is expected, not optional. • Listening precedes learning. James 1:19 reminds believers to be “quick to listen,” underscoring that teachability is the doorway to further insight. Proud ears stay shut; humble ears stay open. • The “instruction” on offer is God-given, reliable, and meant for shaping character. 2 Timothy 3:16 describes Scripture as “useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness,” so every time the wise person listens to God’s Word—or to a godly teacher—more Christlike maturity is within reach. • Refusing instruction stiff-arms the Lord’s care. Proverbs 10:17 warns that whoever ignores correction “leads others astray,” proving that teachability blesses not only oneself but everyone influenced by one’s life. Practical takeaways: – Keep a Bible open daily and a notebook ready; expecting God to speak cultivates attentive ears. – Invite feedback from trusted believers (Hebrews 13:17); the Spirit often speaks through them. – Measure every voice against Scripture (Acts 17:11) so that what is learned is truth, not trend. And the discerning acquire wise counsel • Discernment recognizes need. It is the insightful person who consciously gathers “wise counsel,” acknowledging that nobody sees every angle. Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • “Acquire” signals intentional pursuit. Wisdom is rarely stumbled upon; it is sought. Consider the Bereans in Acts 17:11 who examined the Scriptures daily to verify Paul’s teaching—active, persistent investigation. • Counsel must be “wise,” not merely plentiful. Rehoboam collected advice in 1 Kings 12, but because he favored unwise voices, the kingdom split. Proverbs 12:15 contrasts the fool who trusts his own heart with the wise man who “listens to counsel.” • Scripture provides the ultimate counsel. Psalm 119:24 declares, “Your testimonies are my delight; they are my counselors.” God’s Word stands as the measuring stick for every other opinion. Practical takeaways: – Build relationships with mature believers whose lives display biblical fruit (Proverbs 13:20). – Pray before big decisions, then weigh input against clear scriptural principles (Psalm 32:8). – Remain humble enough to shift course when godly counsel and Scripture point another direction. Summary Proverbs 1:5 invites those already walking in wisdom to keep their hearts teachable, their ears open, and their hands ready to reach for trustworthy guidance. Growth in godliness flourishes where humble listening and careful counsel-gathering are practiced under the steady light of God’s unchanging Word. |
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