Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

Scripture: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” – Proverbs 9:10 (NIV)

Proverbs 9 paints a vivid picture of two women: Wisdom and Folly. Both are calling out, both are offering something, and both are inviting us in. But their destinations couldn’t be more different.

Wisdom, described as a noble woman, prepares her house, sets her table, and sends out invitations to all who are willing to learn and grow. Her offer is nourishing and life-giving. Those who accept her invitation are promised insight, understanding, and a life aligned with God.

Folly, on the other hand, is loud, seductive, and deceptive. She offers shortcuts, easy pleasures, and superficial satisfaction. But behind her door is destruction. Her guests “are deep in the realm of the dead” (v.18). Her path feels right at first but leads to ruin.

The central verse, Proverbs 9:10, reminds us that true wisdom begins with reverence for God—not just knowledge about Him, but a deep, humble respect and a willingness to follow His ways. Wisdom isn’t merely about making good decisions—it’s about living in right relationship with God and letting that guide every part of our lives.

Practical Application

Pause before you choose. Every day we face decisions—some small, some life-altering. Before acting on impulse or emotion, ask: “Is this wise?” or more importantly, “Is this in line with God’s truth?” Not everything that seems appealing is good for us.
Guard your influences.

Who are you listening to? What are you watching? Wisdom and folly both call out, but which one are you inviting into your life? Fill your mind with God’s Word and surround yourself with voices that point you toward Christ.

Seek the Lord daily. Make time each day for prayer and Scripture. As you grow in the fear (reverence) of the Lord, wisdom will become more natural. The more you know God, the clearer your choices become.

Accept correction. Proverbs 9 also says that the wise person accepts rebuke (v.8-9). Don’t bristle at correction—welcome it as part of your growth. Let God use people, Scripture, and even life’s challenges to shape you.

Prayer: Lord, help me to hear the voice of wisdom and to respond with humility and trust. Teach me to fear You rightly and to walk in Your ways. Protect me from the lure of folly, and help me live a life that brings You honor. Amen.

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

• Use the S.O.A.P. Method to study God’s Word.
  
• SCRIPTURE: What stands out to you in today’s passage?
  
• OBSERVATION: What is this text saying? What is the context? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? Are there any commands, instructions, or promises? 
  
• APPLICATION: How can you apply this verse to your life? What does this mean today? What is God saying to you? 
  
• PRAYER: Respond to the passage in prayer. Ask God to help you apply this truth to your life and spend some time listening to what He may be telling you.