1. Words For the Wise  |  06/07/25

Study Guide

Opening Discussion:  Who is someone you admire for their wisdom?  What qualities make them wise in your eyes?

Key Takeaways:

• Wisdom is knowing and doing what is right and best in any circumstance.
• Wisdom is essential for everyone, not just academics or religious people.
• The fear (reverence) of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
• Living with God and surrendering to His leadership leads to wisdom.

Discussion Questions:

1.  How does our society's view of wisdom differ from the biblical perspective presented in the sermon?  

a)  The sermon mentions several ways life becomes simpler when we follow God's way.  Which of these resonated with you most, and why?

2.  Read Proverbs 2:1-11.  Wisdom is more than mere knowledge, it's the application of godly understanding to our daily lives.   It's not just about accumulating facts, but about developing discernment and character that aligns with God's heart.  Can you share an example from your own life where knowledge alone wasn't enough, but wisdom was needed?  

a)  Which area of your life do you need God's wisdom right now?  Ask God to fill you with His wisdom—He promised if we seek it earnestly, He will grant it generously (James 1:5).

3.  The sermon outlined five benefits of wisdom (understanding righteousness, making knowledge meaningful, giving discretion, resisting peer pressure, and seeing through temptation).  Which of these do you find most challenging in your life?  Why?

4.  Read Proverbs 9:10-12, and Psalm 111:10.  The fear of the Lord isn't about terror, but a deep reverence and awe for who God is—recognizing His holiness, power, and authority, while also embracing His love and grace.  How might developing a deeper reverence for God lead to greater wisdom in your life?

5.  Read Proverbs 2:12-19, and 1 Corinthians 10:13.  Wisdom can protect us from the allure of sin and its destructive consequences.  Reflect on areas where you feel most vulnerable to temptation.  What are your "trigger points" that often lead to unwise choices?  

a)  What specific things could you proactively do to avoid situations that you know weaken your resolve?

6.  Read Romans 12:1-2, and Philippians 4:8.  True transformation comes through the renewing of our minds.  As we align our thinking with God's truth, our actions naturally follow.  Consider what inputs are shaping your mind—what media, relationships, or habits are influencing your thought patterns?  

a)  Are they drawing you closer to God's perspective or pulling you away?

7.  Read James 3:13-18, and Galatians 5:22-23.  Godly wisdom isn't just about making good decisions—it's a way of life that bears fruit.  How is wisdom evident in your life?  

a)  Are you seeing evidence of the fruit of the Spirit?

8.  Solomon emphasized the importance of pursuing wisdom, which comes through our relationship with God.  What are some practical ways you can actively seek wisdom/God in your daily life?

Practical Applications:

1.  Identify a "trigger point" in your life that often leads to unwise decisions.  What steps can you take this week to address or avoid that trigger and 'stay away from the edge'?

2.  Choose a chapter from Proverbs to read each day this week.  Journal about any insights you gain and how you can apply them.

3.  Reflect on an area of your life where you've been trying to maintain control.  Practice surrendering that area to God's leadership through prayer and intentional actions.

4.  Find an accountability partner in the group to check in with regularly about pursuing wisdom and living according to God's ways.

Closing Prayer:  Close the session by praying for wisdom, a deeper reverence for God, and the courage to live according to His ways, even when it's challenging.