Our 2021 Bible reading will consist of the five books that make up the Wisdom Literature. These books include Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Job, and the Song of Solomon.

Proverbs

  • We will read this book throughout the first three quarters of the year. The book of Proverbs contains practical wisdom (Proverbs 1:1-4; 2 Timothy 3:16). While Solomon penned the words, let us remember that God inspires this book!
  • There are warnings about the dangers of alcohol (Proverbs 20:1).
  • There are admonitions about debt (Proverbs 22:7).
  • There is teaching about the folly of not heeding the counsel of godly parents (Proverbs 6:20).
  • There is instruction about the need for parents to discipline their children (Proverbs 22:15).

Psalms

  • This is the largest book in the Bible. Many of the Psalms (songs) were written by David. It contains the shortest chapter in the Bible (Psalms 117). It also includes the longest chapter in the Bible (Psalm 119). This chapter is devoted to praising and exalting the word of God.
  • The Psalms can enhance our relationship with God. They reveal the glory, love, and majesty of God (Psalms 8:3-5; 19:1-2; 40:10; 99:9; 145:15-16; 139:7-12; 135:6; 147:6).
  • This book also tells us how to properly respond to God (Psalms 18:1-3; 33:6-9; 113:1-4).

Ecclesiastes

  • This book is about Solomon’s quest to find purpose and meaning in life. He tries to find it in wealth (Ecclesiastes 2:4-10, 18-23). He tries to find it in human knowledge and understanding (Ecclesiastes 1:16-17). He tries to find in having a great name (Ecclesiastes 2:9).
  • He discovers that a life without God is meaningless(Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).

Job

  • This book tackles the question of, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” Job was a righteous man who suffered terribly in his life.
  • Eliphaz believes he knows the source of Job’s suffering (Job 4:7-9). He was wrong!
  • The source of Job’s suffering was Satan, not God (Job 1:12). It doesn’t seem that God ever reveals this to Job.

Song of Solomon

  • This book is probably the most neglected of all five. It is written in the language of poetry. There are several characters and a lot of dialogue.
  • While it can be a difficult read, remember 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
  • This book can help revive a marriage and make it as strong as God intends.

Conclusion:

When we listen to the wisdom of God, our lives will be so much better.