Writing Proverbs

Categories: Proverbs

Let's start writing Proverbs. What should be included in a statement that will make it a Proverb? Proverbs are statements that encourage us to follow God. They are also a collection of sayings, riddles, instructions, and poems. Proverbs can be viewed as a book with ethical and moral statements about how to live life. In writing a Proverb, we want to address issues that will improve our lives.

For example: "If the wise man listens, he will increase his learning, and the man of understanding will acquire skill to understand proverbs and parables, the sayings of wise men and their riddles." (1:1-7)

Some Proverbs start with a statement and then use a contrasting statement like
Prov 1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Some Proverbs are advice given by a father to his son (daughter).
Prov 1:8 My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

Some Proverbs comment on bad behavior.
Prov 24:30,31 I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.

Some Proverbs warn us about corrupt leaders.
Prov 28:15 As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; so is a wicked ruler over the poor people.

There are many others, but this is a good place to start. In class, work on advice parents should give their children or that children should give their parents.

Write simple statements that would help your family.
Example:

• Wise parents teach their children to love God. (teen)
• Fathers and Mothers, hear your children if you want them to listen to you. (pre-teen)
• Don't get your mother angry by being late for dinner. (7 year-old boy)
• Please, please compliment me every time I do it right. (8 year-old boy)

Don't hesitate to email BibleWise the children's wonderful responses. We all enjoy seeing their progress.

Select one of the examples of advice to parents and have the class create a poster to place in the Sunday School. You can also have each one make a poster to give to his/her parents. As this may take longer than the class session, you may assign it for homework or continue with it in class the next week.