Road Rules: The Proverbs

Road signs…they are everywhere. Did you know 500 federally approved road signs are in use today? They tell us when to stop, slow down, and yield. Some tell us to change lanes or take an exit. Others tell us the road we need to take is closed, or the road we don’t need to take is now open. Road signs direct us to airports, zoos, national monuments, gas stations, restaurants, rest stops, and most importantly, how far it is to the next Buc-ee’s—if you have never been to a Buc-ee’s, you are missing quite an experience! Road signs give us direction and distance, warning and guidance. Sometimes, we miss the signs, especially young drivers. That’s because, according to USA Today, 83% are talking on their cell phones, and 68% are texting. Alright, let’s be fair. It is not just young drivers who miss the road signs. In the Old Testament, there is a book of road signs called the book of Proverbs. This collection of moral and ethical instructions deals with many aspects of life. The book is a guide to wise living and provides warnings for the potential pitfalls ahead. Our passage today sets forth the fivefold purpose of the book.

Proverbs 1:1-4 The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel: To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth—

Over the next few weeks, let’s take a road trip together through a book packed with deep insight, needed instruction, and downright common sense. So—eyes on the road! This is going to be a fun trip, and you don’t want to miss the road signs.

Father, as we start a new devotional series through the book of Proverbs, we ask that you be our guide. Give us an attentive mind to understand, a soft heart to heed the warnings, and willing hands and feet to apply the truth of your Word.

In Christ’s name.

Amen.