Proverbs 1

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction” (v7).  The proverbs teach us that if we want to become wise, we must begin with humility.  “Fearing” the Lord means that we recognize our own weakness, sin, and ignorance, and we honor and serve God as our perfect, wise King.  As we call on Him again and again, He shows us the right way.  “Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance” (v5).  

Even if we have strayed, the Lord welcomes us back. “If you turn at my reproof, behold, I will pour out my spirit to you; I will make my words known to you” (v23).