Proverbs 1:1-19
God used Solomon, the wisest of all men (1 Kings 4:29 . . .), to give us "The Proverbs", this book of wisdom. Although it is addressed to all, it is expressly dedicated to the young man (v. 4). Yes, this book has been specially written for you, young believing friend, who have reached the age of discretion and personal judgment. It is time for you to decide as to the way you are going, and to make specific choices. In the school of God, where your Christian education is carried on under the authority and example of your parents (vv. 7-9), Proverbs is one of your main "text-books". It contains definitions, rules and how they are to be applied, exercises, examples, some to be followed, and others not to be followed. But Wisdom (as the Word with which it is identified) is at the same time presented as a living person who teaches and guides in their walk those whom it calls its sons.
The Psalms began with the setting apart of the faithful man (Psalms 1:1). Here, in the same way, the first instruction given to the son warns him to avoid "the way of sinners" who will try to seduce him and will invite him: "Come with us" (v. 11). Wisdom shows him the end to which this path leads, and puts him on his guard: "My son, walk not thou in the way with them" (v. 15; read Ephesians 5:11).