b'By Reverend Melissa Anne RogersThe Book of Proverbs is a manual of inspired instructions for how to live in a way that is pleasing to God. King Solomon was known throughout the land as a tremendous and insightful teacher. He wrote short, pithy statements that are long on wisdom, words which help us to know what is desirable to Godespecially our piety, our devotion to duty, and our expressions of justice. The themes include morality, religion, politics, and societybut there is no clear continuity in the book.The theology of this book is simplewe are in a direct relationship to God, and need no other person or angel to mediate for us! There is Israel alonebut were meant for everyone! The book must be read in light of the New Testament, for the suggestion here is that our salvation lies in our conduct, which is determined by our willsomething that neglects our understanding that the grace of God alone, received through our faith, is what saves us. Reading proverbs is delightful, and does for us what it did for the original audienceit gives us sayings of truth that are vivid, practical, and easy to remember. They are meant to stick in your brain and be considered throughout the day.'