8-23-06 Proverbs1:7

Proverbs1:7 (KJ21)
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs1:7 (NAS)
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs1:7(NIVUS)
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Proverbs1:7 (NLT)
Fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge. Only fools despise wisdom and discipline.

There are many things to fear in the world. Terrorism and its threat grow daily. The fears of getting sick, losing a loved one, or being homeless plague many people. These and things like them can paralyze and exhaust a person. Such fears are never productive and are often destructive.

However, there is one fear that is actually good for you to have. Adonai, the Most High God, is worthy of your respect and honor and you should fear displeasing Him. Even though the Lord God is abundant in loving-kindness, patience, and mercy, you do not want to see His wrath, for it is terrible. When you revere Jehovah, the Eternal God, you are building a future for yourself, a future in which you will rejoice.

Everything in your life should begin with God. He is the captain, chief, and head; every excellent thing comes from Him. If you need knowledge on a certain subject, you should start by inquiring of the Almighty. God, through His Spirit and His word, will instruct and advise you, which will help you comprehend His will. As you are diligent, you will discover all that you need to know and understand.

You do not want to be like the foolish man, who is disrespectful and despises the Lord. This man scorns God's wisdom and holds Adonai's chastisements and warnings in contempt. He is without restraint, and undisciplined. Since he will not receive the Lord's instruction and correction, he places himself to receive God's rebuke and punishment.

You, however, are in a place to receive blessing and provisions from the Lord. As you continue to honor and reverence Him, you will gain even more wisdom.