The Holy Spirit inspired the collection of proverbs found in the Bible. Most were written or collected by Solomon, but the complete book, as we have it, was not put together until at least 200 years later; this is because it contains the proverbs of Solomon, which the men of King Hezekiah copied (see Proverbs 25:1 and 2 Kings 18:1).

The book has a natural outline: 

1. The Fatherly Instructor teaches his son and urges him to seek after wisdom (Chapters 1-9). 

2. The proverbs of Solomon (Chapters 10-24). 

3. Proverbs of Solomon copied by the men of King Hezekiah (Chapters 25-29). 

4. The words of Agur, the son of Jakeh, the oracle (Chapter 30). 

5. The words of King Lemuel, the oracle which his mother taught him (Chapter 31). 

The first six verses of the book inform us about the purpose of the proverbs. 

Know wisdom and instruction: This refers to the ability to see things as they truly are, distinguishing reality from fiction. Instruction refers to discipline, which, when aligned with wisdom, allows one to control and manage one’s affairs effectively. 

Discern the words of understanding: This means to understand the principles by which to evaluate information or discussions, determining whether they are good or bad, true or false. 

Receive instruction in righteousness, justice, and integrity: A person guided by the proverbs will act not out of external pressure or custom but through an understanding of the principles of right and wrong. 

Give prudence to the simple: Here, “the simple” refers to the naive person, typically a young man who lacks experience. The inspired proverbs can provide knowledge from experience, teaching care and discretion—the capacity to comprehend the right intentions, implement appropriate actions, and devise effective plans. 

Increase learning for the wise: The wise person will hear and increase their knowledge, while the person of understanding—the one willing to be informed—may gain rules for conduct and management. Thus, proverbs assist those who are already wise to manage both their own affairs and the affairs of others wisely. 

Comprehend wise sayings: Finally, the proverbs enable individuals to grasp profound sayings, helping them understand the words of the wise and their enigmas or puzzles. 

Over the next 31 days, we will read the Book of Proverbs—one chapter a day—and make notes of 3 to 5 observations from each text to draw practical applications for daily life. I invite you to join. Our hope and goal is to be a little wiser 31 days from now than we are today. Let’s take the distilled wisdom of the ages and make practical applications in our lives, starting now. 

Join us tomorrow as we plan to read Chapter 1, and feel free to share any comments or observations you think are worth discussing in the comments section.