Teaching Proverbs

1. What specific tactics do the troublemakers use to recruit the young man, and why might these approaches be effective?

2. Why does Solomon compare people who chase easy money to birds flying into their own traps?

3. Where do you see modern versions of the 'come with us, we'll split the profits' pitch in today's world?

4. When Wisdom calls out in the streets but people ignore her, what does this suggest about why people make poor choices even when good advice is available?

5. How can you tell the difference between a legitimate opportunity that requires effort and a scheme that's designed to benefit someone else at your expense?

6. Solomon compares getting wisdom to mining for treasure. What specific actions does he say we need to take to find it?

7. Why do you think Solomon emphasizes that we have to 'cry out' for wisdom and 'search' for it? What's the difference between wanting something and actively pursuing it?

8. Solomon warns about people who 'speak smooth lies' and use flattery. Where do you see this pattern in modern life - at work, in relationships, or online?

9. Think about something valuable you've achieved in your life. Did it come from passive waiting or active pursuit? How does this connect to Solomon's treasure-hunting advice?

10. Solomon promises that wisdom will protect you and help you spot dangerous people. What does this suggest about how we develop good judgment about others?

11. Solomon promises that following wisdom leads to longer life, better sleep, and favor with people. What specific behaviors does he recommend, and how might they actually improve someone's daily life?

12. Why does Solomon warn against relying on your own understanding and instead trusting in something bigger? What's the difference between being smart and being wise?

13. Solomon says to give from your 'first fruits' rather than leftovers. Where do you see this pattern playing out in modern life - paying bills first vs. saving what's left, or helping others when you're fresh vs. when you're exhausted?

14. The chapter warns against envying bullies and oppressors because their methods backfire. Think of someone you know who gets ahead through intimidation or shortcuts. How do you stay focused on your own path when their way seems faster?

15. Solomon describes wisdom as more valuable than gold, holding both long life and riches. What does this suggest about how good judgment and understanding people creates both security and opportunity?

16. Solomon describes two completely different types of people - those who 'cannot sleep unless they have done wrong' and those whose path is 'like the light of dawn.' What specific behaviors distinguish these two groups?

17. Why does Solomon say that wicked people 'do not know what makes them stumble'? What does this suggest about self-awareness and the consequences of our choices?

18. Think about your workplace, school, or community. Where do you see the pattern Solomon describes - people who seem to need drama or conflict to function normally?

19. Solomon says to 'guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.' If you took this advice seriously, what would you need to change about what you allow into your mind and emotions daily?

20. This chapter suggests that wisdom and foolishness both build momentum over time through small, repeated choices. What does this reveal about how people actually change - or why they don't?