The Beginning of Wisdom
C. J. Goodhart, M.A. Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. This text occurs several times in the Old Testament, showing its importance; and it really sums up the teaching of the Bible for all classes and ages, and is one strikingly adapted for urging upon us the early religious education of our children. I. WHAT IS "THE FEAR OF THE LORD"? 1. The right knowledge of Him in what He is — (1) In creation. (2) In providence. (3) As revealed in His Word. 2. And, consequent upon this — (1) Reverence of Him. (2) Belief in His Word. (3) Love for Him as a Father. (4) Obedience to Him as a Master (Malachi 1:6).Mark how a child, as it learns its duty to an earthly parent, is thus trained in its relation to its heavenly Father. II. THIS IS TRUE WISDOM, which means here the knowledge of Divine things, rightly used. When we fear the Lord we are wise, because — 1. The heart is then taught by the Holy Ghost. 2. We set a right value on things temporal and eternal. 3. We listen to the words of Jesus and of the Scriptures, and repent and believe the gospel (Luke 10:42; 2 Timothy 3:15). 4. We seek to know and carefully follow His holy will (Ephesians 5:17). 5. We walk in a sure path of peace and safety (chap. Proverbs 3:17). III. BUT OUR TEXT STATES THAT THIS FEAR OF THE LORD IS THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM. 1. It is at the root of all true wisdom; for we are never truly wise till we begin here, and only then do we know how to deal rightly with all things. 2. It is only reasonable then, and our solemn and bounden duty, to teach our children these blessed things early. 3. And God has confirmed the truth of the text by making this thoroughly practicable. Mark how the relations and circumstances of a child prepare it for learning: What God is as a Father. What Christ is as a Saviour. What the Holy Ghost is as a Teacher. Also what repentance, faith, obedience, etc., are, and the opposite of all these. Note the parables of Scripture. 4. And the Holy Ghost can reach a child's heart; hence the parent's encouragement to pray, and to use teaching in faith and perseverance. (C. J. Goodhart, M.A.) Parallel Verses KJV: The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. WEB: The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom. The knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.