Here is a really outstanding post by Tim Keller on how to read and benefit from the Proverbs. What Keller says in this article is absolutely necessary for a right understanding of individual Proverbs. I would only add (as I assume Keller would) that the Proverbs need to be read in their redemptive-historical context, namely, how Christ realizes in Himself and exemplifies the wisdom of the Proverbs so that His people may also learn to walk in paths of wisdom and righteousness.