The Beginning of Knowledge

Devotional #1

January 2, 2023

Scriptures: 

Proverbs 1:7 AMP The [reverent] fear of the Lord [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] is the beginning and the preeminent part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]; But arrogant fools despise [skillful and godly] wisdom and instruction and self-discipline.

Devotion:

Have you ever been too prideful to ask for help or seek instruction from someone who you knew had the answer? If you read this and thought to yourself, that is me, then you are not alone. We often avoid the “words of the wise” because we think we know what is best. We think that we have the knowledge and know how and because of our pride, it often leads us to destruction or that place of “I told you so”. 

Proverbs tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge and those who are arrogant fools despise wisdom and instruction. To fear the Lord, means to reverence or honor him, holding him in high regard. Now take a moment to think of the people you honor or hold at a high regard in your life. If they were to give you instruction would you listen? Most of our answers are probably yes! The same should be with God and those that he has placed over us (like our parents, pastors, godly mentors).

Just like in the Bible, God has given each of us people in our lives that will lead and guide us. Although in the flesh we may feel we know more than them or that what you are going through they haven’t experienced, in the Spirit if God has placed them over us it means he has appointed them and given them wisdom to provide us with sound doctrine. 

Therefore if we fear the Lord, then we will follow their instruction; because instruction will lead to knowledge and the application of knowledge is wisdom.