Proverbs 8

By thissmallgroup, October 8, 2019

As an English major, this is one of my favorite chapters of Proverbs. Before now, King Solomon had been very practical in his advice. “Do this, don’t do that.” “Avoid friends and empty promises.” “Take these words and keep them in your heart.” In chapter 8, however, Solomon became more figurative — he imagined what it would be like if Wisdom were a woman calling for an audience at the city gates. She’s a contrast to the lustful woman in the previous chapter; her words are life-giving rather than life-destroying. She professes to have been at God’s side from the beginning of creation, to enable leaders to rule, and to bring blessings upon those who follow her guidance.

Verse 22: “‘The Lord brought me forth as the first of His works, before His deeds of old…'”

Verse 30: “‘Then I was constantly at His side. I was filled with delight day after day, rejoicing always in His presence…'”

Verses 32-35: “‘Now then, my children, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not disregard it. Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For those who find me find life and receive favor from the Lord.'”