How to Have a Better Life

Week 1: To Have a Better Life, Seek Wisdom Day 1

What Is the Key to a Better Life?

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
for gaining wisdom and instruction;
for understanding words of insight
(Proverbs 1:1-2).

Proverbs says the key to a better life is to live wisely. This is the theme of the whole book.
Proverbs contains 31 chapters. Chapters 10-31 contain over 600 one-verse sayings that apply wisdom to different areas of life. Chapters 1-9 do not contain individual proverbs. Instead these chapters describe the value of wisdom and the keys to becoming wise. Here is a verse that sums up these first nine chapters of Proverbs:

Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom.
Though it costs all you have, get understanding
(Proverbs 4:7, NIV 1984).

Most of the proverbs contain two lines each. The second line parallels the first line in some way. The most common parallel is to restate the first line with different wording. That is the pattern in Proverbs 4:7. “Understanding” is a synonym for “wisdom.” Because wisdom is supreme, it is worth any sacrifice to acquire it. You are probably a little skeptical that wisdom is more valuable than all your possessions. You are probably not yet ready to sacrifice your car or house to get wisdom. That’s understandable. For now, at least give wisdom a fair consideration. Then, make your own evaluation.
Each day I will suggest a prayer you can pray based upon what we have learned. Here is a suggestion for an opening prayer:

God, I want a better life. I am willing to consider what you have to say in Proverbs says about wisdom. Help me to stick with this study for the next 175 days. Amen.

Week 1: To Have a Better Life, Seek Wisdom Day 2

What Would a Better Life Look Like?

You will be more motivated to pursue wisdom when you understand its benefits. What does wisdom promise? If you follow the advice God gives in the book of Proverbs, you have the best possible chance for happiness, peace, riches, and long life:

She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.
Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.
She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;
those who hold her fast will be blessed
(Proverbs 3:15-18).

The life of wisdom will also protect you from trouble:
Then you will go on your way in safety,
and your foot will not stumble.
When you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet
(Proverbs 3:23-24).

Would you like to know how to be happy? Would you like to know how you can live at peace? Would you like to know the secret to riches and a long life? Would you like to know how to get rid of your fears and anxieties and get a good night’s sleep? That is the better life wisdom offers!

God, thank you for revealing in your Word the principles that make life work best. Teach me over the next 174 days the way of life that will lead me to happiness, peace, riches, and long life. Amen.