Read Proverbs 1:1-7.

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1 The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel: 2 To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, 3 to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; 4 to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth— 5 Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance, 6 to understand a proverb and a saying, the words of the wise and their riddles. 7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.

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Discuss the text. Jamin’s working definition of the fear of the Lord is to be so taken by God’s greatness and grace that you move towards him with all of your life.

1. How have the last two weeks shaped your understanding of the fear of the Lord?
2. If you find yourself near the window (Fearful) or under the scowl (Faithless), what does it look like for you to move toward God?
3. Which do you fear more: being sinful or being uncomfortable? God or man? Being a sinner or being exposed before others as a sinner? (from What does it mean to Fear of the Lord? by Michael Reeves)

Pray Scripture. Praying scripture gives us an alert mind, actively listening to the passage and looking for God. It is a way of intentionally focusing our hearts and our minds to receive love from God on any page of the Bible and to be encouraged in Christ by the Spirit.

Read Proverbs 1:1-7 again aloud, and as you listen, consider these questions:

• What is an attribute of God to praise?
• What is a mindset to correct about your fear of the Lord?
• What sin or heart posture has to be forsaken in order to be wise?

Close with a time of silence. Confess any areas in your life (relationships, money, career, character, etc.) that have been hindered because you have feared a person over God. Ask God to eliminate your fear of man and increase your fear of the Lord. May we live in God’s world in God’s ways. Amen.