Topical Encyclopedia Prudence is a virtue highly esteemed in the Bible, often associated with wisdom, discernment, and the ability to govern oneself with sound judgment. It is the quality of being cautious and judicious, especially in practical affairs, and is considered essential for understanding the ways of God.Biblical Foundation of Prudence The Bible frequently highlights prudence as a desirable trait. In Proverbs 8:12, wisdom personified declares, "I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence, and I find knowledge and discretion." This verse underscores the close relationship between wisdom and prudence, suggesting that prudence is an integral aspect of living wisely. Prudence is also linked to the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom. Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." Those who fear the Lord are more likely to act prudently, as they seek to align their actions with God's will. Prudence in Decision-Making Prudence involves careful consideration and foresight in decision-making. Proverbs 14:15 notes, "The simple man believes every word, but the prudent man watches his steps." This highlights the importance of discernment and the ability to evaluate situations critically before acting. In the New Testament, Jesus commends prudence in the parable of the wise and foolish builders. In Matthew 7:24-25, He says, "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock." Here, prudence is demonstrated by those who not only hear the words of Christ but also apply them, ensuring a firm foundation in their lives. Prudence and Understanding God's Ways Prudence is essential for understanding the ways of God, as it involves aligning one's actions with divine principles. In Ephesians 5:15-17, Paul exhorts believers, "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is." Prudence enables believers to discern God's will and act accordingly, even in challenging circumstances. The prudent person seeks God's guidance and wisdom in all things. James 1:5 encourages believers, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." This promise assures that God provides the necessary wisdom for prudent living to those who seek it earnestly. Prudence in Relationships and Conduct Prudence also governs how individuals interact with others. Proverbs 12:16 states, "A fool’s anger is known at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult." This verse illustrates how prudence involves self-control and the ability to manage one's emotions, promoting peace and understanding in relationships. Furthermore, prudence is reflected in speech. Proverbs 16:23 says, "The heart of the wise man instructs his mouth and adds persuasiveness to his lips." A prudent person speaks thoughtfully and with intention, using words to edify and encourage rather than to harm. Prudence as a Mark of Maturity Prudence is a mark of spiritual maturity and growth. Hebrews 5:14 notes, "But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil." This maturity involves the development of prudence, enabling believers to navigate the complexities of life with a godly perspective. In summary, prudence is a vital attribute for those who seek to understand and follow the ways of God. It encompasses wisdom, discernment, and careful judgment, guiding believers in their daily walk with the Lord. Through prudence, individuals can live lives that reflect God's character and purpose, making choices that honor Him and benefit others. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hosea 14:9Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the LORD are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Blessed Prosperity Meditations on the First Psalm. The Fundamentals of the Christian Religion The Bible --The Background and the Picture. Address in Lambeth Chapel, at the First Session of the Lambeth ... Letter xv. --The Use of Afflictions. Letter civ. (AD 409. ) Thou Shalt have no Other Gods Before Me. Introduction Chapter xi. Of the Most Bitter Kind of Scrupulosity Touching Confession. ... Resources What does the Bible say about applied kinesiology? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about gray hair? | GotQuestions.org Is “you only live once / YOLO” something a Christian should live by? | 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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