Reading for January 17th

Read Proverbs 4.10-27. In verses 10-19: The two ways. The process of gaining wisdom is essentially the same in all instruction. One begins be memorizing the teaching and putting it into practice, then one receives wisdom as a gift. The passage develops the doctrine of the two ways, in which the moral life is dramatized as two competing paths, the way of wisdom and the path of the wicked. Each has its inherent destiny, represented here by the symbols of light and darkness (vv. 18-19). The two ways are not static, one must struggle to stay on the right path. It is possible to leave one path and walk on the other. In verses 20-27: Heed my words. This lecture emphasizes the vigo and sincerity for the pursit of wisdom The poem offers a psychological picture of discipleship. One perceives the teacher's examples and words through listening and seeing (vv. 20-27) and stores the perceptions in the heart (by memorizing them) where they are pondered (v. 23). One then puts into practice what one "knows," that which is in one'sheart or mind. Practicing wisdom means always speaking the truth (v. 24) and acting justly (vv. 25-27). Comments or Questions..