Worshiping and Revering God Is the First Step in Learning

In review of Proverbs 1:7 this morning, Solomon tells me that  “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (NIV)

Solomon warns me about not being a know-it-all, with a dogmatic opinion about everything, closed to anything new, resenting discipline, and refusing to learn. Solomon says this type of person is a fool. Rather, I need to be open to the advice of others, especially those who know me well and can give me valuable insight and counsel. Learn to learn from others. Only God knows it all. 

In this age of information, knowledge is plentiful, but wisdom is scarce. Wisdom is more than simply knowing a lot. It is the basic attitude that affects every aspect of life. The foundation of knowledge is to fear (revere) the Lord, to honor and respect God, to live in awe of his power, and to obey his Word. Faith in God should be the controlling principle for my understanding of the world, my attitude, and my actions. Trust in God, then he will make me truly wise.

How do I become a great student? I worship God. The Bible says it like this: “Start with GOD—the first step in learning is bowing down to GOD; only fools thumb their noses at such wisdom and learning” (Proverbs 1:7 The Message).

The apostle Paul once told Timothy that the problem with many people was they knew a lot of information, but they didn’t know what was most important. In fact, Jesus told the religious leaders, “You have your heads in your Bibles constantly because you think you'll find eternal life there. But you miss the forest for the trees. These Scriptures are all about me!” (John 5:39 The Message)

One day, after my life ends, I’ll stand before God. It’ll be my final exam. One that will be far more important than any test a teacher or professor gives me. At that final exam, God won’t talk about how I did in math or social studies. He’ll ask, “Did you know me?”  How will I answer is key.

In summary, The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but only a fool would despise wisdom and instruction. This means not being a know-it-all, with an opinion about everything, closed to anything new, resenting discipline, and refusing to learn. Solomon says this type of person is a fool. Rather, I need to be open to the advice of others, especially those who know me well and can give me valuable insight and counsel. Learn to learn from others. Only God knows it all. In this world, knowledge is plentiful, but wisdom is scarce. Wisdom is more than simply knowing a lot. It is the basic attitude that affects every aspect of life. The foundation of knowledge is to fear (revere) the Lord, to honor and respect God, to live in awe of his power, and to obey his Word. When I trust in God, he will help me become truly wise. So the first step in learning is bowing down to GOD.  One day, after my life ends, I’ll stand before God. He’ll ask, “Did you know me?” How will I answer this is key for my eternity.

I have to admit that often I can be a fool. In my recent quiet times it has been pointed out that I have my own opinion and what needs to be done. In a rebellious fashion, I’m not always listening or obeying what my leader is saying. Father I pray this morning that I go back to the root of revereing and worshiping you. That I take you seriously, turn toward and trust in you daily (even hourly) for guidance and assistance. Through the help of the Holy Spirit allow me to listen to those who may be counselling me or providing me insight. I also ask you for wisdom and guidance for today, my tasks, my leadership, and my interaction with others. These things I pray through your Son Jesus Christ’s name, Amen.