Proverbs 19:8 (ESV) “Whoever gets sense loves his own soul; he who keeps understanding will discover good.”
What are the elements of “gets sense” and “keeps understanding?” (We will be traveling tomorrow to spend time with family in Illinois, so I want to get this posted this evening.)
I would like to propose the following elements of getting sense and keeping understanding. King Solomon would agree, because many of his Proverbs of wisdom talked about these very things:
It is good sense to:
- Fear the Lord. This means you understand Him and you understand yourself rightly. Proverbs 1:7, 8:13, 9:10, 14:26, 14:27, 15:16, 15:33, 19:23, 22:4, 23:17, 31:30 and Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
- Seek more wisdom. Solomon said simple people, youth and wise men seek more wisdom. Proverbs 1:4-5
- Keep a right view of wealth and possessions. View wealth as temporary and unable to provide true satisfaction. Ecclesiastes 2:1-11
- Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. Matthew 6:33
- Love God. Matthew 22:37
- Love your neighbor. Matthew 22:39, Proverbs 17:17
- Shut your mouth. Keep a close watch on your tongue. James 3:1-12, Proverbs 10:20, 31
- “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” Proverbs 16:3
- Choose your friends carefully. “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” Proverbs 13:20
- Use your gifts for the benefit of others. If God has given you a gift, use it. Romans 12:6
Know Your Flocks & Herds 