Wisdom for Speech, Words, and Work

Primary Biblical Texts

The Bible (Primary Source)

Proverbs 6:6-11; 10:4-5; 12:11; 24:30-34 – Core passages for the lesson, focusing on diligence, hard work, and stewardship.

Supporting Scriptures:

• Proverbs 16:3 – "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans."
• Proverbs 21:5 – "The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty."

Commentaries on Proverbs

• "Proverbs" (The NIV Application Commentary) by Paul Koptak
  Provides insights into the themes of hard work, diligence, and stewardship in Proverbs.
• "Proverbs: An Introduction and Commentary" (Tyndale Old Testament Commentary) by Derek Kidner
  Discusses the poetic structure of Proverbs and the practical application of its wisdom.
• "How to Read Proverbs" by Tremper Longman III
  Explains the purpose of Proverbs in teaching practical wisdom for everyday living.

Books on Old Testament Wisdom Literature

• "Old Testament Wisdom: An Introduction" by James L. Crenshaw
  Explores the literary and theological aspects of Proverbs, including themes of diligence and laziness.
• "The Wisdom of Proverbs, Job, and Ecclesiastes" by Derek Kidner
  Examines the ethical and practical teachings of Proverbs in the context of ancient wisdom literature.

Study Bibles for Context and Notes

• The ESV Study Bible
  Offers detailed commentary on the cultural and theological significance of Proverbs.
• The NIV Study Bible
  Provides insights into the practical application of Proverbs' teachings on work and diligence.

Online Resources

• BibleGateway (www.biblegateway.com)
  For comparing translations and exploring cross-references related to Proverbs.
• Blue Letter Bible (www.blueletterbible.org)
  For Hebrew word studies and deeper analysis of terms like "diligence" (ḥārûṣ) and "sluggard" (ʿāṣēl).
• The Bible Project (www.bibleproject.com)
  Articles and videos explaining the themes and structure of Proverbs, with emphasis on practical wisdom.

Articles and Sermons

• "The Diligent Worker" (Desiring God Article) by John Piper
  Discusses the biblical perspective on work and stewardship.
• Sermons on Proverbs by Tim Keller
  Practical insights on applying Proverbs' teachings to everyday work and productivity.

Theological and Historical Sources

• "An Introduction to the Old Testament" by Tremper Longman III and Raymond B. Dillard
  Provides historical and theological context for Proverbs' composition and teachings.
• "The Ancient Near East" by James B. Pritchard
  Examines the cultural backdrop of Proverbs and its connection to other wisdom traditions.