Proverbs 1:8; Proverbs 15:32-33
Read Proverbs 1:8; Proverbs 15:32-33
Helpful Background Information:
In the first chapter of Proverbs, the reader is introduced to the connection between the fear of the LORD and wisdom (Proverbs 1:7). One of the main sources of wisdom, according to the writer, comes in the context of family. Throughout the book of Proverbs, children are urged to learn from their parents. On a practical level, the wisdom of a child is measured by both their receptiveness to correction and their willingness to learn from their fathers and mothers (v.8).
The story of Belshazzar’s father should have served as an instructive example of how to relate to the Most High God (Daniel 5:18). Belshazzar knew the story of King Nebuchadnezzar—the heights of his power and the depths of his humiliation at the hand of Israel’s God (v.19). He knew full well that Nebuchadnezzar’s arrogance directly led to his downfall (v.20-21). Even though Belshazzar knew all of this, he persisted in having his own way (v.22). Sure enough, “that very night, Belshazzar the Chaldean king was killed” (v.30).
The Chaldean king’s demise validated many of the principles that had already been written in the book of Proverbs. Namely, that “whoever ignores instruction despises himself” (Proverbs 15:32). The path to honor, according to Proverbs, is not marked by the pursuit of power but by the position of humility (v.33).
Reflection Questions:
Think of a time when you were given correction from a wise source, but decided to insist on your own way instead. How did that work out for you?
Why do you think each of the kings was susceptible to arrogance? How is arrogance incompatible with wisdom?
Belshazzar was given an example to learn from in Nebuchadnezzar. In your life, whose example are you looking to for guidance? Describe specific ways in which the person you identified has served as a model to follow.