Cornerstone

Proverbs 2:1-15

In the text for our consideration a number of If/Then propositions are made. Each of these involves the wisdom of God which is referred to repeatedly the book of Proverbs. “Wisdom” in Proverbs may be regarded not as a mere personification of the attribute of wisdom, but as a divine person, “Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God” (1 Cor. 1:24. In this particular portion of Scripture the Hebrew word Chakam is used. It is an important word in the Scriptures and is used to speak of “good and evil, prudence in secular matters, skill in arts, experience in Divine things, and even dexterity in magic.” (Girdlestones Synonyms of the Old Testament pp 89-90). The Greek form of the word which is used in the Septuagint is Sophia. The word as used in this context is narrowed in scope somewhat to refer to living a life that is pleasing to God. This is done by having a proper honor of God and by learning how to properly conduct himself in everyday life so that the principles of godly wisdom are applied. Doing this always brings glory to God. By exercising Chakam the reader is assured that he will finally come to understand the fear of the Lord and will find the knowledge of God. This can only be accomplished, however, by living for God because wisdom is a gift from God (vs. 6). Paul referred to this concept when he said that spiritual things are spiritually discerned. This is not to say that pagans can not learn about the Bible and learn lessons from it. It does suggest that to develop a relationship with God and understand things from His perspective that we must give our hearts and lives to God. When you see things through the eyes of God, have an inward inclination to do what you have perceived and then carry this into practice you can say that you are exercising true wisdom. Thus to carefully exercise godly wisdom is to pattern our lives after than of Jesus Christ who is “the power of God and the wisdom of God.” Matthew Henry once said, Those who earnestly seek heavenly wisdom, will never complain that they have lost their labor; and the freeness of the gift does not do away the necessity of our diligence, John 6:27. . . When wisdom has

dominion over us, then it not only fills the head, but enters into the heart, and will preserve, both against corruptions within and temptations without. Matthew Henrys Commentary Proverbs 2.

Dr. Gayle Woods

Romans 13:1-5 (3) … “Do that which is good…”

Maybe you have heard the old expression? “You can drag a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.” Yes, and the same holds true for good works. God commands that we do good works but it is only those who love Him who will obey.

The fact hold true, however, we are commanded to do good works. This implies a number of things. God sees a real necessity in doing good works. Good works are for a divine purpose. Whether good works are received or not is not what is of importance… our obedience is what is at stake. We do not have a choice in whether to do good works or not. Finally, there are needy benefactors.

If this is the case then what must we do. First, there should be no need for coercion if you truly love God. Second, there should be no question about your obedience to His command if He is first in your life.

When God commands you to do good works and then you do them under protest or from the wrong motivation then they become as filthy rags in His sight. Works are not what is the focus of importance but love which results in obedience.

Dr. Gayle Woods