Wisdom in Community (Prov. 14)

There is a certain trajectory in chapter 14. The opening seven verses set up the two sorts of people you could hang out with. Lady Wisdom who builds her house, or Dame Folly who tears her own house down.

Then verses 8-15 urge us to distinguish between appearance and reality. Because folly often appears wise and prudent!

There is a way that seems right to a man – it's easier – cheaper – let's go that way! But the man of prudence counts the cost and sees the path of wisdom.

The final half of chapter 14 then deals with the way of wisdom in community, pointing to the Fear of the LORD as the foundation for wisdom in the neighborhood, and in the king's court.