The first nine chapters of Proverbs were lengthier discourses on the value of wisdom in general. Note that Solomon does not necessarily practice what he preaches. He elaborates extensively on the benefit of marital fidelity and yet had 700 wives and 300 concubines himself. It seems that later in life Solomon came to realize his own folly in this and other areas (material gain, power and position), in the writing of the Book of Ecclesiastes.
Beginning with the 10th Proverb, the writings are more succinct and targeted at specific areas of practical living. Advice is given in the form of bullet points which are generally recognized as being true, but not true in every instance. For example, it is generally but not always true that lazy people are poor and hard workers get rich (Proverbs 10:4). It is not always true that fear of the Lord lengthens one's life while the years of the wicked are cut short (Proverbs 10:27), though it is true that Godly people make better lifestyle choices than the wicked, which results in longer life. So when reading Proverbs, do so with an eye for general but not universal truths.
Tomorrow's reading: Prov. 11,12,13
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Welcome back, Melissa! You were missed, but I am so glad the festival was such a success. I saw Taylor's prayer with his grandfather at the race on youtube. It was such a precious example of why Jesus sets children up as examples for adults; the heart of a child trusting in Him is so simple and beautiful. May the Lord continue to bless you and J.D. as you raise your boys for His honor and glory.
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