Interestingly enough, when I first started reading this chapter, I had to gasp and giggle (yes, I did it in that order). I've had a scheduled fast on my heart since Saturday so I was a bit shocked with it right away this morning.
When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee:
and put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite. (v1-2)
One of the first reminders in this chapter is about self-control, even with something as simple as food. When sitting at a table with rulers or wealthy people, don’t be greedy. Why? Because what looks like a feast might be bait. Proverbs reminds us that not everything spread out in front of us is worth consuming. That applies way beyond food. Some opportunities, friendships, or “good deals” aren’t really good for your soul.
Labor not to be rich. cease from thine own wisdom.
Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not?
for riches certainly make themselves wings;
they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. (v4-5)
YIKES! Our culture screams the opposite, doesn’t it? But Proverbs pulls us back to reality.... riches sprout wings and fly away.
Ever notice how quickly money disappears? It’s like trying to hold water in your hands!
The Bible keeps pressing the same truth.....don’t set your heart on riches.....they won’t stick around!
Let not thine heart envy sinners:
but be thou in the fear of the Lord all the day long. (v17)
Envy is a thief! It steals joy and blinds us to what God is already doing in our lives.
The fear of the Lord (reverent trust & awe) is what anchors us, NOT comparison.
(v29–35) doesn’t pretty it up ..... drinking until you don’t feel pain, seeing strange things, waking up asking, “When will I get another drink?”
It’s not just about alcohol; it’s a warning about anything that numbs us.
Anything we run to for escape instead of God leaves us broken and enslaved.
We read this morning to guard our heart from greed, envy, and numbing escapes. Keep your steps toward wisdom, discipline, and the fear of the Lord.
And THAT, my friend, is where life stays steady, even when everything else is shifting!
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