Heart Prep:
God’s gift of wisdom extended beyond King Solomon, shared through the book of Proverbs. With all the insight gained as being the wisest man on Earth, Solomon wrote in Proverbs 1:7, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge”. He knew it was folly to live a life relying on his own strength, and to live a life worth living would be to pursue God through genuine trust and obedience. He beckoned readers to trust in the Lord with all their heart and not depend on their own understanding. The proverbs reveal to us that wisdom is not a mere intellectual exercise. Wisdom is a Person, Jesus, and by trusting in Him, we find salvation. Invite kids to see the beauty of pursuing God’s ways and trusting Him, both for the promise of His presence and the wisdom He provides in our everyday lives.
Message:
King Solomon wrote many proverbs. Proverbs are short sayings that give wisdom and help people live in ways that are right and good. By following these proverbs, people can gain knowledge and wisdom and receive guidance for life. The book of Proverbs is filled with many of King Solomon’s wise sayings. King Solomon taught people to fear the Lord and trust in Him. He said fearing God was the beginning of knowledge. He also wrote that it is foolish to hate wisdom and discipline. Solomon said it is wise to keep God’s commandments, for they will bring a long, full life. He taught about the importance of being loyal and faithful, and how this will give you a good reputation with God and people. Another proverb Solomon wrote was, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not depend on your own understanding.” Solomon said you should look to God in everything you do, and He will guide you. “Don’t think of yourself as wise,” Solomon wrote. “Instead fear the Lord and turn away from evil.” Solomon also said, “Honor the Lord with everything you own and with the first produce of your entire harvest; then you will experience great blessing.” Some of Solomon’s proverbs were warnings, such as “Do not hate the Lord’s instruction, and do not hate His discipline. The Lord disciplines the one He loves, just as a father disciplines the son he loves.” Solomon’s proverbs show there are two ways to live: with God’s wisdom or without God’s wisdom. He wrote, “I am teaching you the way of wisdom; hold on to God’s commands and don’t let go for they are your life. Don’t walk in the path of the wicked. Turn away from it for the wicked love violence, and their path is dark. But stay on the path of the righteous where light always shines brighter and brighter.”
Main Point:
Solomon’s proverbs encourage God’s people to trust in the Lord. Jesus trusted in God His Father throughout His life on earth, all the way to His death on the cross for our sins. He rose again and continues to lead us to love and trust God the Father.
Discussion:
Why is it important to not depend on our own understanding?
Tell kids that our hearts are sinful and deceitful. We don’t always know what is best or right because we follow sinful desires. Discuss how God is always good and right. He has all wisdom, and we can depend on Him in everything. (Option: Choose a volunteer to read Prov. 3:5-6.)
Does it matter who we follow or the friends we choose? Why?
Discuss how who we follow or who we surround ourselves with impacts the choices we make. We become like what we continuously look to. If we look to those who don’t love God and follow Him, we will be led away from God. If we surround ourselves with godly influences, we will be encouraged to seek after God. (Option: Choose a volunteer to read Prov. 4:10-19.)
What are some practical ways Christians can grow in wisdom?
Remind kids that our key passage teaches us that wisdom comes from fearing the Lord and turning away from evil. Some other ways that Christ followers can grow in wisdom are by reading God’s Word, spending time in prayer, going to church, spending time with other followers of Jesus, and obeying God’s commands. The more we seek Wisdom (Jesus), the wiser we become. (Option: Choose a volunteer to read Prov. 9:9-11.)
