Today we begin a two part study in Proverbs eight and nine. This incredible book of wisdom was written by a very wise man named Solomon. The thing that set Solomon apart in the wisdom department was his faith that any knowledge he had was useless without God's wisdom attached.

I'm sure you've heard and seen the ongoing efforts of secular media and organizations to make sin not only acceptable, but celebrated. It's just another sign that Jesus will be coming back soon! Until He does, it's our duty as believers to wade through the filth and lead Godly and moral lives, and to be a witness to the unsaved. We can do it!

Today we'll again open our Bibles to the book of Proverbs as we consider the topic of our morality. As a nation, the United States was founded on Christian principles. If you look around today, you'd have some trouble finding proof of that fact. God is being kicked out of schools, government, and every other part of life. What are the consequences of such a trend?

There was a time when discipline in the classroom was not only acceptable, but an integral part of growing up. Things have changed, haven't they? Now kids can go through the metal detectors at school knowing they won't ever face any discipline in the classroom. God's attitude toward discipline has never changed. It's an important part of the life of the believer.

We've just begun a new series in Proverbs, so turn there in the Old Testament and join us. Today we'll begin a look at chapters three and four, and the rewards we can reap by making Godly wisdom a part of our decision making.

The dangers we face as Christians are everywhere as well, no matter how nice a neighborhood we live in. How do we combat satan's attacks, and ultimately triumph? We are studying Proverbs chapter two.

A closer walk with God is a worthy goal, but it can only be accomplished if we pursue it passionately. If you really want something badly in life, whether it's a blouse, a house or even a spouse, you'll have a passion to obtain it that drives you toward success. That's exactly what Lloyd is talking about in this study - a passionate pursuit after God.

Today on Bridging the Gap we'll put aside irrational fears and concentrate of a fear we'll all have if we're wise - a fear of God. As Lloyd reminded us yesterday, that doesn't mean we should tremble at the thought of God, and live in fear of what awful thing He's going to do to us if we sin.

Everyone has fears in their life. Some of them are more rational than others. The most rational fear any of us can have is a fear of God. Afraid of God? What's that all about? Well, fear of God as defined by God's word is a very healthy thing. We're going to see exactly what it means today as we again return to the book of Proverbs.

John Rockefeller was once asked how much money was enough, and his reply was "just a little bit more". Living well really doesn't have anything to do with material wealth, as we'll see today. It has more to do with living a life pleasing to God. That's where wisdom comes into the picture.