**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today. Let’s talk about wisdom. There’s a particular verse that many people reference—Proverbs 9:10. Could you share your thoughts on that?
**Author of Proverbs:** Absolutely, I’d be happy to discuss it. In Proverbs 9:10, I wrote, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
**Interviewer:** That’s powerful. What does “the fear of the Lord” mean in this context?
**Author of Proverbs:** Great question! “The fear of the Lord” isn’t about being afraid in a negative sense. It signifies a profound respect and reverence for God. It’s recognizing His greatness, His authority, and His wisdom, which ultimately leads us to a deeper understanding of life and ourselves.
**Interviewer:** Interesting! And how does that relate to wisdom?
**Author of Proverbs:** It’s foundational. When we cultivate a healthy fear of the Lord, we open ourselves to His guidance and teachings. This reverence shapes our values and decisions, guiding us toward true wisdom. Without that foundation, wisdom lacks depth and is easily swayed by the world.
**Interviewer:** So, you’re saying that understanding God is also crucial for acquiring wisdom?
**Author of Proverbs:** Exactly! The second part of the verse mentions that “knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” It emphasizes that to truly grasp wisdom, one must seek to know God. It’s through that relationship that we gain insights that go beyond mere information—it’s about understanding life’s purpose and our place within it.
**Interviewer:** That puts a new perspective on wisdom. What do you hope people take away from that verse?
**Author of Proverbs:** I hope they recognize that wisdom begins with a heart aligned with God. It’s an invitation to explore a deeper relationship with Him, which leads to a life rich in understanding and fulfillment.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing those insights today! It’s clear that wisdom is a journey rooted in reverence and knowledge.
**Author of Proverbs:** Thank you for having me! I encourage everyone to seek that journey, as it opens the doors to a life well-lived.