Bible.com.au: Reading Plan - Wisdom’s Seven Pillars

Reflection: Wisdom’s Seventh Pillar: Fear of the Lord

The fear of the Lord is often misunderstood as mere fear or terror. However, in this verse, it signifies a profound reverence and awe for God, which leads to wisdom and understanding. The ‘fear’ referenced here is not about being scared but about recognising God’s sovereignty, power, and holiness. When we understand who God is, we gain the wisdom to act in accordance with his will, especially in challenging circumstances.

In times of crisis, whether caused by natural disasters or human conflict, people often find themselves searching for answers, for hope, and for someone who can provide direction. This is where the ‘fear of the Lord’ becomes transformative. I have come to recognise through my work with megavoice Australia that true wisdom comes from understanding God’s heart for the broken and the lost. It is this reverence for God that compels us to act in these moments of suffering, bringing his word and his comfort to those in need. We don’t just deliver information; we deliver the eternal hope found in his promises.

The ‘knowledge of the Holy One’ brings understanding and clarity in the midst of confusion. For those affected by crisis, hearing the word of God provides more than just relief — it brings peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). Our audio Bibles and disaster relief efforts are an extension of this wisdom. When we place God at the center of our mission, we are not merely meeting physical needs, we are addressing the deeper spiritual longing for God’s presence and guidance.

In your own life, how does the fear of the Lord guide your actions, especially when you see suffering around you? How can you respond to the needs of those in crisis with wisdom that reflects God’s heart?

Prayer:

Father, we thank you for the wisdom that comes from knowing you. In times of crisis, help us to reflect your love and understanding, bringing comfort and hope through your word. May our actions in response to suffering always be guided by reverence for you, as we seek to be a light in the darkness. Amen.

Proverbs 9:1-18

Invitations of Wisdom and Folly

1Wisdom has built her house;

she has set up its seven pillars.

2She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine;

she has also set her table.

3She has sent out her servants, and she calls

from the highest point of the city,

4“Let all who are simple come to my house!”

To those who have no sense she says,

5“Come, eat my food

and drink the wine I have mixed.

6Leave your simple ways and you will live;

walk in the way of insight.”

7Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults;

whoever rebukes the wicked incurs abuse.

8Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you;

rebuke the wise and they will love you.

9Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still;

teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.

10The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,

and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

11For through wisdom your days will be many,

and years will be added to your life.

12If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you;

if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer.

13Folly is an unruly woman;

she is simple and knows nothing.

14She sits at the door of her house,

on a seat at the highest point of the city,

15calling out to those who pass by,

who go straight on their way,

16“Let all who are simple come to my house!”

To those who have no sense she says,

17“Stolen water is sweet;

food eaten in secret is delicious!”

18But little do they know that the dead are there,

that her guests are deep in the realm of the dead.

Wisdom’s Seven Pillars

Day 7 of 7

NIV

Proverbs 9:10

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Proverbs 9:1-18