The book of Proverbs — wisdom for today

Course Description

Originally, the first nine chapters of Proverbs was a self-contained book, different from the rest of Proverbs. The content of the first nine chapters consists of ‘essays’ that flow together. In contrast, the content for the rest of the book (starting with chapter 10) is made up of short, wise sayings called proverbs.

Solomon’s first purpose for this book of essays (chapters 1-9) was to lay out simple truths concerning how to live a life that is pleasing to God. It’s second purpose was to give skills on how to live within the society around us. Even though the book of Proverbs was written over 3,000 years ago, it is relevant in today’s world. This life-skills study examines these nine Biblical chapters and lays out a course of action to live a successful life.

The structure of this curriculum involves written material, individual activities, group activities, and a website. It takes 18 weeks to go through the entire study: 8 weeks to complete the basic course and 10 weeks for the advanced. 

Each week, individuals are encouraged to read three lessons in preparation for a weekly group meeting. The individual lessons are short and have personal activities that help reinforce the material. The class is dependent on everyone reading the material and completing the individual activities. The leader then takes the group through the interactive activities below. These activities inspire discussion on a wide variety of topics found in the daily lessons. Some of the principles can easily be adapted into daily habits, while others require a deeper study into the basic tendencies of human behavior. With the support of a group, participants have the opportunity to explore how Scripture guides us on the path of successful living.

The website also provides other tools for the group leader, including open-book quizzes and group dialogues. Weekly group activities are designed so everyone can hear what God has taught each person in the previous lessons, and to prepare them for the next few lessons.

Part One is an eight-week basic course covering topics such as developing attitudes for successful living, dealing with authority, handling criticism, avoiding harmful distractions, finding direction in life, overcoming abuse, setting priorities, and managing conflict.

Part Two follows the same format for ten additional weeks. It covers topics such as meditating on Scripture, applying life principles to daily living, strengthening the foundations of marriage, being successful in business/career, learning new skills, navigating mid-life, and finding the wisdom that is hidden all around us.

Welcome to Life Skills from the Book of Proverbs, a course that will pilot us through the wisdom given by God and written down by Solomon.