The Fruit Of Wisdom

_Warm-up_

• The self-help industry has a current estimated worth of 12 billion dollars and continues to grow rapidly. What do you think that says about our culture’s desire to “do life” better?

• Discuss some of the common vulnerabilities that are exploited/highlighted in self-help literature.

_Word_

//BIG IDEA

• Proverbs introduces readers to a unique wisdom that calls out to the foolish of this world and shows a path that leads to abundant life. This wisdom is better than “self-help” because it ultimately points to Jesus, who is the supreme expression of the wisdom of God.

• This wisdom produces lasting fruit that makes one a better leader personally and gives discernment to recognize both foolishness and wisdom in political leaders who have power over us.

//READ

Proverbs 8:12-21

“I, wisdom, dwell with prudence,
and I find knowledge and discretion.
The fear of the Lord is hatred of evil.
Pride and arrogance and the way of evil
and perverted speech I hate.
I have counsel and sound wisdom;
I have insight; I have strength.
By me kings reign,
and rulers decree what is just;
by me princes rule,
and nobles, all who govern justly.
I love those who love me,
and those who seek me diligently find me.
Riches and honor are with me,
enduring wealth and righteousness.
My fruit is better than gold, even fine gold,
and my yield than choice silver.
I walk in the way of righteousness,
in the paths of justice,
granting an inheritance to those who love me,
and filling their treasuries.

//WATCH / LISTEN

//DISCUSS

_Old Self_

• There is a sense in which all the readers of Proverbs are understood to be fools in need of wisdom. Hence, the main problem for us is not if we’re fools, but rather, what kind of fools are we? If you had to answer that question, what kind of fool would you say you are?

• Is there any part of you that bristles at the notion that you might be living a foolish life? If so, describe how you feel.

_New Self_

• Jesus died on the cross to save fools like me and you. What does it mean to admit your foolishness, turn from it, and head towards Christ instead?

• What does it say about God’s wisdom that, in Christ, he can rescue anyone caught in foolishness, forgive them, and lead them on the path of abundant life?

_World_

• Part of the fruit of having God’s wisdom in Christ is an ability to “rule” by wisdom. That is, true wisdom enables one to exercise judgment and prudence in leading and guiding others who are “under” your leadership. When you exercise authority this week (as a parent, friend, boss, co-worker, or sibling), what are ways you can do so using God’s wisdom, instead of common foolishness?