We Only Find Peace, Joy and Fulfillment Through Christ – (Proverbs 19:6,8)

Daily Bible Study
These passages from God's book of wisdom give us a clear picture that contrasts man's ways with God's ways. In the first verse we see man's thinking which is to go to those in power and ask for favors. And if that doesn't work bring a gift, use flattery or become their friend to get what we want. It's showing us worldly wisdom, which is to rely on the world, to rely on power and material possessions to seek after happiness and joy. Basically to look inward depending on ourselves rather than on God. As we read these passages and others throughout the book of Proverbs, we have to understand when God speaks about gaining wisdom and understanding, it's referring to faith and knowledge gained through the study of scripture. God is contrasting false wisdom, which is gained from a fallen world and leads to death. These passages are comparing the wisdom of the world with true wisdom which can only come from God, wisdom which leads to life.

Moreover, the wisdom we see throughout Proverbs is not just Biblical, but also practical wisdom which is applicable to our day to day lives. God's wisdom helps us to lead better and more productive lives. In addition, a life which is honoring to God and shines the light of the Gospel to those around us. Here in these passages we see that the Bible does not speak against giving gifts, rather, it speaks against doing so specifically as a form of bribery. This is then contrasted with the man who seeks wisdom, which is a metaphor here for seeking the Lord, God's guidance and the knowledge of His word, the Bible. And when we seek after God, we shall find understanding and in the Lord, have joy, peace and wisdom. As we grow in Christ, God will also bless us with His call on our lives as we live for Him. And lastly, we have to remember that in order to truly know and understand the scriptures, we must first have a relationship with Jesus. It's only through faith in Christ, that God sends us His Holy Spirit, who indwells us and helps us to better understand the Bible in light of who Jesus is and what He has done for us.