The Lord Gives Wisdom

LIVING WISE IN A STUPID WORLD

(What did the smartest man who ever lived have to say about it)

Lesson 2 of 31. Proverbs 2:1-9. The Lord Gives Wisdom.

Getting the most out of your church experience. There are three types of people that attend Sunday school class and church. The simple, the foolish and the wise. Also known as:

The Prisoner (put prison hat on one of the class members)

Has to be here because of spouse/peer/other pressure. Doesn’t want to be here. Doesn’t know why they are here. They do not attend on their own.

• Doesn’t engage.

• Spends class time doing something else. Checking emails, planning personal agenda, etc.

• Day dreams.

• Escapes by leaving early. “For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world...” 2 Timothy 4:10

• Doesn’t want to change. They are unbothered by their sin. They are so simple that they do not realize they have a problem. “…God is angry with the wicked every day.” Psalm 7:11

• Picks fight with teacher or others if they don’t agree. “Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works”. 2 Timothy 4:14. “Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.” 1 Chronicles 16:22.

The Vacationer (put party hat on one of the class members)

A day in class is better than going to the job, doing housework, taking care of the kids, or being alone.

• Spends as much time chatting as listening.

• There to have fun. They are a distraction to others.

• Arrives to class late.

• Not interested in learning. They think their thinking is right.

• Does not pay attention. Sees no need to change or improve.

• Rich young ruler. Wanted both God and his worldly lifestyle. Mark 10:17-27.

The Explorer (put crocodile Dundee hat on one of the class members)

They are excited and curious about the new knowledge, skills and tools they will discover in class.

• Listens attentively, then participates fully in the discussions. “They left all.” Luke 5:11.

• Asks meaningful questions and contributes insight. Studies ahead.

• Arrives to class on time and is fully engaged the whole time.

• Adopts a posture of acceptance. Prays for the teacher. “…do it heartily…” Colossians 3:23.

• Takes notes. Writes down prayer requests.

• Respects the opinions of others. Does not dominate the discussion. Encourages others.

Conclusion

How you participate here is generally how you will participate everywhere. Listening skills learned in Sunday school will enhance your life. You are only at church for a couple of hours—give it your best effort.

Application

Be fully engaged here and in life. Do not be passive. Be a lifelong student. Use what you learn.