Proverbs 1

There are many seeking knowledge, but they mistakenly believe they will find it by participating in discussions with others. While there is something to learn through discussion, it is dangerous to enter a discussion unarmed. The best way to gain wisdom, is to listen. Proverbs 1:5 – 6 tells us:

A wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel, ​​To understand a proverb and an enigma,​​ The words of the wise and their riddles.

Proverbs 1:5–6

When we want to learn, we attain wise counsel, and then we LISTEN to their advice.

There are plenty who would give us bad counsel, because they haven’t learned from God, but by following others who have evil motives behind their actions and advice. They don’t mind hurting others for personal gain. But their gain is fleeting. That’s why verse 19 tells us:

So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain; it takes away the life of its owners.

Proverbs 1:19

There are many greedy for gain in our world today. It’s a shame, because there isn’t much time left for this world! That’s why we should spend more time listening and learning, than speaking and arguing. Wisdom will come when we listen, and pray over what we hear.

Be careful who you listen to. Is it “worldly wisdom” you are hearing, or godly wisdom? When it’s godly wisdom, we can rest secure in what v.33 tells us:

But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure, without fear of evil.”

Proverbs 1:33