Topical Encyclopedia Prudence is a virtue that is deeply intertwined with wisdom in the biblical context. It is the ability to govern and discipline oneself through the use of reason. In the Scriptures, prudence is often portrayed as a quality that leads to a life of righteousness and is essential for making sound decisions.Biblical Definition and Context Prudence is frequently mentioned in the wisdom literature of the Bible, particularly in the Book of Proverbs. It is associated with foresight, discretion, and the ability to judge correctly in practical matters. The Hebrew word often translated as "prudence" is "ormah," which conveys a sense of shrewdness or craftiness, but in a positive sense when aligned with godly wisdom. Proverbs and Prudence The Book of Proverbs highlights the importance of prudence as a companion to wisdom. Proverbs 8:12 states, "I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence, and I find knowledge and discretion." This verse personifies wisdom and prudence as coexisting entities, suggesting that true wisdom cannot be separated from prudent action. Proverbs 14:8 further illustrates this connection: "The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way, but the folly of fools deceives them." Here, prudence is depicted as the ability to discern the right path, contrasting with the folly that leads to deception. Prudence in Decision-Making Prudence is essential for making decisions that align with God's will. It involves careful consideration of the consequences of one's actions and the ability to choose the most appropriate course. Proverbs 22:3 states, "The prudent see danger and take cover, but the simple keep going and suffer the consequences." This verse underscores the foresight that prudence provides, enabling individuals to avoid potential pitfalls. Prudence and Speech Prudence also extends to the realm of speech. Proverbs 10:19 advises, "When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise." The prudent person exercises restraint in speech, understanding the power of words and the importance of speaking with discretion. Prudence in Leadership In leadership, prudence is a critical quality. Leaders are called to exercise sound judgment and make decisions that benefit those they lead. The Apostle Paul, in his pastoral epistles, emphasizes the need for church leaders to be prudent. In Titus 1:8 , he describes an overseer as "hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined." Prudence is implicit in these qualities, as it involves the ability to govern oneself and others wisely. Prudence and the Fear of the Lord The foundation of prudence is the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 9:10 declares, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." A reverent relationship with God is the starting point for both wisdom and prudence, guiding believers to live in a manner that honors Him. Prudence in the New Testament In the New Testament, prudence is reflected in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus commends the prudent steward in Luke 16:8 , saying, "The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly." While the context involves a parable about worldly wealth, the underlying principle is the commendation of shrewdness or prudence in managing resources. The Apostle Paul also encourages believers to walk prudently. In Ephesians 5:15-16 , he writes, "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." Prudence is essential for living wisely in a world that often opposes godly values. Conclusion Prudence, as presented in the Bible, is a vital aspect of wisdom that enables individuals to live righteously and make decisions that align with God's will. It involves foresight, discretion, and the ability to govern oneself and others wisely. Through the fear of the Lord and a commitment to His teachings, believers are called to cultivate prudence in all areas of life. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 8:12I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Letter clxvii. (AD 415. ) The Conversion of the Ethiopian Eunuch. The Counsel of Gamaliel. General Conference of 1824 On Friendship with the World The Conversion of Apollos, his Character, and the Ministry of Paul ... Causes of the Reformation Introductory Notice Respecting Tauler's Life and Times Justifying or Sanctifying Grace From the Close of the General Conference of 1824 to the ... Resources What are the seven cardinal virtues? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a husbandman in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about common sense? | GotQuestions.org Prudence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Prudence in Avoiding his Enemies Prudence in Charging Those Who Were Healed not to "Advertise" his Miracles Prudence in Circumcising Timothy Prudence in Performing Temple Rites Prudence in Turning the Jewish Sects Against Each Other Prudence in Walking "No Longer Openly" Prudence of the Wicked: Defeated by God Prudence of the Wicked: Denounced by God Prudence of the Wicked: Fails in Times of Perplexity Prudence of the Wicked: Keeps Them from the Knowledge of the Gospel Prudence of the Wicked: Necessity For-Illustrated Prudence: Abigail, in Averting David's Anger Prudence: Achish, in Dismissing David Prudence: Aged Counsellors of Rehoboam Prudence: Avoiding Suspicion in Administering the Gifts of the Congregations Prudence: Certain Elders of Israel Prudence: David, in his Conduct Toward Saul Prudence: David, in Overthrowing Ahithophel's Shrewd Advice Prudence: Elijah, in his Escape from Jezebel Prudence: Exemplified by Christ Prudence: Exhibited in the Manifestation of God's Grace Prudence: General Scriptures Concerning Prudence: Going to the Feast Secretly Prudence: Intimately Connected With Wisdom Prudence: Jacob, in his Conduct Toward Esau Prudence: Jacob, Toward his Sons, After Dinah's Defilement Prudence: Jehoram, in Suspecting a Syrian Stratagem Prudence: Jethro's Advice to Moses Prudence: Joseph, in his Conduct Toward Mary Prudence: Joseph, in the Affairs of Egypt Prudence: Nehemiah, in Conduct of Affairs at Jerusalem Prudence: Paul and Barnabas, in Escaping Persecution Prudence: Paul and Silas, in Escaping from Berea Prudence: Peter, in Escaping from Herod Agrippa I Prudence: Saints should Especially Exercise, in Their Intercourse With Prudence: Saul, in not Killing the Jabesh-Gileadites Prudence: The Israelites, in the Threatened War With the Two and One-Half Tribes Prudence: The Town Clerk of Ephesus, in Averting a Riot Prudence: The Wise Celebrated For Prudence: The Young should Cultivate Prudence: They Who Have are Preserved by It Prudence: They Who Have: Crowned With Knowledge Prudence: They Who Have: Deal With Knowledge Prudence: They Who Have: Foresee and Avoid Evil Prudence: They Who Have: Get Knowledge Prudence: They Who Have: Keep Silence in the Evil Time Prudence: They Who Have: Look Well to Their Goings Prudence: They Who Have: Not Ostentatious of Knowledge Prudence: They Who Have: Regard Reproof Prudence: They Who Have: Suppress Angry Feelings Prudence: They Who Have: Understand the Ways of God Prudence: They Who Have: Understand Their own Ways Prudence: Virtuous Wives Act With Related Terms |
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