People desperately want to “win” at life. They want to succeed in everyday life, and Christians are no different. We search frantically for tips from books, from “experts” on TV, the internet, TikTok or anywhere we can find them. The problem is that many Christians look everywhere but the Bible to learn how to “win” at parenting, finances, marriage, the workplace, and other areas of life.

Even Christians who want a “Christian” perspective on these topics are more likely to look to a Christian book than to the Book—the Bible!

What does all of this tell us? It tells us that we have a major problem that no amount of tips will solve. It tells us that we are not wise and are often foolish. It tells us that we are broken and don’t work right. It tells us that we are in desperate need of wisdom to make decisions and navigate our way through life. But we can’t just say that we need wisdom and then go after it. Since we are broken, we don’t even follow the wisdom we already know. We do things we know are hurtful and foolish. We just can’t help ourselves.

Proverbs is all about becoming wise in everyday life through a relationship with Jesus—through the gospel. It’s about the life of the kingdom that God always meant for humankind to live. When our vertical relationship with God is right through Jesus, we can be right with others and the world around us.

Key Takeaway: Without Jesus Christ in our lives, there is no way to be truly wise.

Main Points:

The Purpose of Proverbs

The Purpose of Wisdom

The Purpose of Experience & Counsel

Quote: “A proverb is a short sentence based on a long experience.” Cervantes in Don Quixote

Memory Verse: “(Christ)... in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:3

Proverbs in Your Life: Where have you been searching for your source of wisdom in life? Your habits, and first responses will reveal the true source.

Related Resources:

Bible Project Guide: https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-proverbs/

Bible Project Video: https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/proverbs/