Observation: As the teacher (Solomon) concludes his thoughts, he says two interesting points. The first is that he himself is the writer of many proverbs, one who has taught many about wisdom, and in fact there are many others who write down great wisdom that comes from the Lord as well. The second is that there is really just one core piece of wisdom, which is to fear the Lord and keep his commandments.
However, verse 12 sits between these two points as a transition. It stands out because it effectively creates a structure that could read as follows: There is a lot of wise advice written in a massive volume of books ... but you don't need to read it if you remember one thing ... honor and obey the instructions and precepts and commandments of Yahweh.
Application: I just spent 15 minutes writing (then deleting) about a person that is harsh and judgmental ... about a person I know who has caused angst, hardship, and anger within my household, and whose life includes affairs, lies, and ridicule ... all while declaring they are an absolute expert Christian because they have read every book by every famous Christian author on every topic and thus know more than effectively anyone. I want to lash out at this person for the pain they cause others through judgmental declarations of their book knowledge, while simultaneously proving by their words and actions they don't know the Lord at all.
However, I have read enough of the bible to know that is wrong. I will never actually confront this person. I may offer wise advice if the Lord guides me to it, but I will allow this person to remain foolish while they talk on and on, creating conflict as they go. Maybe one day we will just not have this person in our lives, or at least have them in it less. And I have seen improvement in the last six months after my wife laid down some heavy-duty 'wisdom' on them.
I would likely do well to read some good books written by wise teachers to augment my knowledge of the Lord. However, I also know I would do better if I just ... better obeyed THE book and the instructions, precepts, and commandments the Lord as already given to us all in the bible. If I simply obey the Lord, I don't need to concern myself with others.
Prayer: Lord, please soften my heart and give me peace when it comes to interacting with this person. You know their heart, and I do not, so may I judge them less and less. I will concern myself with myself and my lack of obedience to your word, which again today I pray you give me the strength to overcome sin, and act only within your precepts and your love, bringing your peace and joy as I go. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.
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