The fear of the Lord

Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Much wisdom is available to you in the book of Proverbs. Sometimes, a proverb is called a maxim, which is an obvious truth condensed into a few words. A proverb has relevance to numerous situations in life and is stated in such a way as to be easily remembered.
Fear, in this case, refers to reverence. When we properly acknowledge who God is and humbly honor him and offer him the worship of which he is so deserving, we begin to gain wisdom.
The wisest king to rule Israel, Soloman, wrote much of this practical advice. Though he was, in part, speaking to the young people of his day just beginning their journey, we also can learn much about those principles that characterize and distinguish wise choices from those foolish choices which, no doubt, will result in consequences.
I encourage you to take some time to ponder the instructions found in Proverbs and to understand how godly wisdom merges with real life, as you pay close attention to the differing results of those who do follow the wisdom from God and the results of those who don't follow God's wisdom.
Take care and grow in spiritual wisdom as you apply these godly principles to your own lives. Love, Nan