As we come to this tenth chapter we are still talking about wisdom. Solomon has shown us: 1) Chapter 8 – Wisdom is to obey the law of the land and those God has allowed to hold positions of authority, 2) Chapter 9:1-12 – Wisdom understands the brevity of life and the necessity of being prepared for death, 3) Chapter 9:13-10:1 – Honor wisdom. Hear wisdom. Heed godly wisdom. The issue in this tenth chapter is regarding the respect we show to others, and it deals with the attitude we may have toward them. Solomon is using the example of talking to the king. We are making the application of dealing with other people (whether it is a leader, a boss, a friend, or a fellow church member). Our attitude can go a long way toward determining how people perceive and receive us and the things we have to say to them (our witness). We are talking about the wisdom it takes to positively influence a person or a situation. The wisdom of showing respect is not the trend of this culture today. Instead, the trend is to belittle, complain, and mock. In these verses we find 5 points of wisdom/instruction that will help us in dealing with all people. We see:

  I.  THE COURSE OF WISDOM – VV. 2-4.

 II.  THE CHALLENGE FOR WISDOM – VV. 5-7.

III. THE “CHARM” OF WISDOM – VV. 8-14.

IV.  THE COMPARISON IN WISDOM – VV. 15-19.

V.  THE CAUTION FROM WISDOM – VS. 20.