In these the first nine chapters of Solomon's writing about wisdom, he really has done all he can to invite people to hear these words of wisdom. He has stated a convincing argument for why people should pay attention to wisdom's advice. The next chapter (10) we will actually begin to look at the wisdom of Solomon and what it might mean for our lives to pay attention to it.It really is an invitation to gain wisdom. Solomon paints a picture of almost a dinner party - a time set aside for people to join in and partake of the food and drink of wisdom. Verse 10 is the more recognizable verse in this chapter: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." He hits hard at those he calls "mockers" - and we know the voices of those persons. Mockers are the ones who are the naysayers. They ridicule and make fun of the word. They are deliberate and arrogant in their rejection of the truth.
But - according to Solomon - we are not supposed to invite correction or rebuke of those who mock because they will only continue to insult and ridicule us. Instead, Solomon's wisdom invites us to pay attention to those who will listen - build up the community of the faithful and the righteous. According to the Quest Bible, the question is asked if we are supposed to give up on those who mock? It's not an easy thing to do. I believe that we need to develop relationships of respect and trust so we can hold those who mock accountable to their positions in a manner that doesn't invite the scorn and turning the tables.
Keep it simple. Like following the Golden Rule - "do unto others as you would have them do unto you." I would hope that people wouldn't give up on me. I would hope that we would try to help others see and experience the truth about God's love.
That's my hope - how about you?
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