Good Fear - The One Year Daily Wisdom

Read Proverbs 15

Fear of the LORD teaches wisdom; humility precedes honor.

Proverbs 15:33

Throughout this year as we have sought to grow in wisdom, we have inevitably deepened our understanding of the fear of the Lord. Proverbs begins with counsel: “Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. Let those with understanding receive guidance by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables, the words of the wise and their riddles. Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline” (1:5-7). The decision to pursue wisdom is itself a wise decision, and all true wisdom and knowledge rest on our understanding of God.

Fear of the Lord directs our use of wisdom. Fear of the Lord reminds us that understanding and knowledge are gifts to be used for the benefit of others. Fear of the Lord never allows us to forget who God is, and that we aren’t God. Fear of the Lord fosters the right kind of humility. The finest honors we receive in life are wasted if they aren’t preceded by humility and if they don’t proceed from our use of wisdom to make a difference in people’s lives.

A WORD FOR TODAY

Fearing God prepares us for wisdom.

Today, Lord, allow me to see ways in which I can use my skills and understanding to help others.