Today is the last day of the introduction. God dedicated 9 chapters to explaining and describing Wisdom. What it (she) is, how to obtain it, the benefits of wisdom as well as the warnings of not seeking wisdom. After today’s read the ball is in your court. These last 3 chapters are intense. There are 2 women- one leads you down a well-lit straight path that leads to an abundant life. The other leads you down a crooked path in the dark.
In chapter 7 Solomon‘s words describe the other woman as crafty, defiant, and with persuasive words. The world today could not have been portrayed more perfectly than Chapter 7. The chapter is concluded with a “Listen to me”. I know when I say that at to kids, all eyes better be facing me!
Now then, my sons, listen to me;
pay attention to what I say.
Do not let your heart turn to her ways
or stray into her paths.
Many are the victims she has brought down;
her slain are a mighty throng.
Her house is a highway to the grave,
leading down to the chambers of death.
After reading that, I was saddened as I was reminded of Matthew 7:
13 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Chapter 8 answers the question “Does God WANT you to have Wisdom”- YES. Verse one says:
8 Does not wisdom call out?
Does not understanding raise her voice?
2 At the highest point along the way,
where the paths meet, she takes her stand;
3 beside the gate leading into the city,
at the entrance, she cries aloud:
4 “To you, O people, I call out;
I raise my voice to all mankind.
5 You who are simple, gain prudence;
you who are foolish, set your hearts on it.[c]
6 Listen, for I have trustworthy things to say;
I open my lips to speak what is right.
Wisdom is not a whisper! She is right here calling out from the Bible. You have been reading for 157 days (some crammed together as make-up days). Let me ask you WHAT ELSE HAVE YOU DONE IN YOUR LIFE FOR 157 Days?? If you worked out for 157 you would be stronger. If you dieted for 157 days there would be a change. If you cleaned your house for 157 it would look different. So, I ask you…has 157 days in the Word made a difference in you!! I am going to answer for you: YES because you wouldn’t have still been reading.
Chapter 8 Verse 17:
I love those who love me,
and those who seek me find me.
18 With me are riches and honor,
enduring wealth and prosperity.
19 My fruit is better than fine gold;
what I yield surpasses choice silver.
20 I walk in the way of righteousness,
along the paths of justice,
21 bestowing a rich inheritance on those who love me
and making their treasuries full.
Finally chapter 9: A reminder that Wisdom is calling out, but the woman of folly is loud and undisciplined. As we start tomorrow reading the actual proverbs, take a deep breath and remember that these are to be applied, not just read. They will be loud (but the other woman telling you not to apply them will be loud too. YOU CHOOSE. Dark/Light Straight/Narrow.
How do we start: By being in AWE of GOD! Chapter 9:10:
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
For through wisdom your days will be many,
and years will be added to your life.
Reading the Bible - 2021 
Patricia, your post really spoke to me today. Reading God’s word each day has made a difference in me. I feel it, I know it, and now he’s holding me accountable for a couple of things. Thank you for your words that lead me closer to Him each day.
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