This book is the ultimate expression of Wisdom literature. It takes secular wisdom and puts it in the context of the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of true wisdom. When we fear the Lord, we can discern the good and bad of secular wisdom. However, without the fear of the Lord, theology, philosophy, psychology, sociology, and other disciplines become mere exercises in futility and confusion. Nothing makes sense or is truly helpful to us, unless we are centered on the Lord.

Key word    FEAR OF THE LORD
 
Key verse    "Fear of the Lord is glory and splendor, gladness and a festive crown. Fear of the Lord warms the heart, giving gladness and joy and length of days. He who fears the Lord will have a happy end; even on the day of his death he will be blessed. The beginning of wisdom is fear of the Lord." —1:9-12
 
Command verse    "When you are ill, delay not, but pray to God, Who will heal you: flee wickedness; let your hands be just, cleanse your heart of every sin; offer your sweet-smelling oblation and petition, a rich offering according to your means. Then give the doctor his place." —38:9-12
 
Promise verse    "He who fears the Lord is never alarmed, never afraid; for the Lord is his hope." —34:14
 
Difficult verse    "He who builds his house with another's money is collecting stones for his funeral mound." —21:8
 
Surprise verse    "See now all the works of the Most High: they come in pairs, the one the opposite of the other." —33:15
 
Prayer: Father, "give new signs and work new wonders; show forth the splendor of Your right hand and arm; rouse Your anger, pour out wrath, humble the enemy, scatter the foe.