The Fear of The Lord Part 1

Proverbs 1:7 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,
But fools despise wisdom and instruction."

Why did Solomon state in the Book of Proverbs that fearing God, is the point of origin from which all wisdom flows?

• Is it because God is the source of all knowledge, and all should consider and absorb His take on the matter in question?
• Or is it because when one fears the Lord, he will be more conscious of his actions and their eternal consequences of those actions?
• Or is it because since God is Omnipotent (Unlimited Power and Authority) and Omnipresent (Present Everywhere At The Same Time), He is able to to help us navigate our path, to ensure we are not victim to the pitfalls and snares that entrap others?
• Or is it because we are fragile, and without God giving us wisdom, we are more likely to to allow our sinful nature to dictate our actions, which is almost a guarantee for tragedy?

As a matter of fact, all of the answers are true. When Solomon first became king of Israel, God appeared to Solomon in a dream and asked him “Ask! What shall I give you?” (I Kings 5). Please note, Solomon could have asked for wealth, health, long life, women, good looks, a head full of hair, or power. Instead he responded with 'Now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king instead of my father David, but I am a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. 8 And Your servant is in the midst of Your people whom You have chosen, a great people, too numerous to be numbered or counted. 9 Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?” (I Kings 6-9).

God was so impressed that Solomon did not ask for something he could use for selfish gain, He not only gave him wisdom, He made him the greatest and wealthiest king in the world. And given that King Solomon's reputation as one of the wisest and splendor-drenched kings in the history of the world is still intact too this day, God's blessing was no small feat.

What would you ask for, if given such an opportunity as Solomon?