2. WISDOM PREPARES US TO RESPOND WELL
TO LIVE WELL, in Hebraic thinking, is to RESPOND WELL to life
“Hebrew thought does not construct the truth as a philosophical
system; rather it is essentially the response to an event.“
(Jacques B. Doukhan, Hebrew for Theologians)
In other words, the wise man or woman is distinguished by how
they respond to that which life presents them.
Jesus echoes this when He points out: “wisdom is known by her
children (products, outcomes)…” in Luke 7: 35.

3. WISDOM BRINGS WELL-BEING
Wisdom, then, is that which SETS US UP TO RESPOND WELL
TO LIFE
James 3: 13, 17, 18
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them
show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility
that comes from wisdom….
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure;
then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of
mercy and good fruit, impartial and
sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a
harvest of righteousness.

4. THE FATHER CONTINUES HIS INSTRUCTION…
Chapter Two – Father counseling his son to live Godward
Chapter Three – The counsel continues…
• The central virtues: Love and Faithfulness
(the heart of the “Shema”, the heart of the Law, re-emphasized
by Jesus)
•
The outcome? FAVOR and a GOOD NAME with God and
man
(the person who responds well to life will become known
for their life skills – i.e., they will have a “good name”)

5. PRACTICAL BENEFITS OF WISE AND GODWARD
LIVING…
He will make your paths straight (vs “crooked” in 2:15)
Health to your body, nourishment to your bones (vs “dry
bones” or “rotten bones” in 12:40, 14:30, 17:22)
Abundance in the barn and in the wine vat (vs “want” in 6:11
and 13:25)
Long life (vs “cut off” in 2:22)

6. PRACITCAL BENEFITS, CONTINUED
Riches and Honor
A pleasant and peaceful environment
Your foot will not stumble
You will not be afraid and you will sleep in peace
Blessing, favor, and honor from the LORD

7. CONCLUSION
Those who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD and who do not
despise His discipline but who welcome His maturity
processes (live Godward) end up enjoying the “good
life”. This is how the wise are distinguished from the
unwise (or foolish).
This means they respond well to life, reap many practical,
emotional, and spiritual benefits, and develop a
reputation (good name) as they become known for their
skillful responses to what life brings them.