Studying the Proverbial

I am taking a wisdom literature class this semester and for our very first assignment we read a large section of Proverbs, then picked one out to share with the class. I thought I might share mine here as well:

A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing personal opinion. (Proverbs 18:2)

I have to admit that my initial reason for picking this proverb is because I am afraid that I might be the fool in this proverb. I hope not, but you never know- I'm sure I have been more than I care to admit. But reading it reminds me that it is a good idea to stop and examine my reasoning for sharing something with other people. Then again, there are a few other people I know, besides myself, who come to mind too!

Studying wisdom literature has also made me realize how incredibly unfamiliar I am with this part of scripture. I did lead a Bible study on Job last year during internship. I thought it went fairly well. But I'll probably learn in this class that my approach was all wrong! At any rate, I think we are missing out on some good stuff! A few examples:

• Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses. (10:12)
• To guarantee loans for a stranger brings trouble, but there is safety in refusing to do so. (11:15)
• The field of the poor may yield much food, but it is swept away through injustice. (13:23)
• The wise of heart is called perceptive, and pleasant speech increases persuasiveness. (16:21)
  

A little something to ponder on a Friday.