Proverbs 5
Scripture
Proverbs 5:20-23
“Why should you be intoxicated, my son, with a forbidden woman and embrace the bosom of an adulteress? For a man’s ways are before the eyes of the Lord, and he ponders all his paths. The iniquities of the wicked ensnare him, and he is held fast in the cords of his sin. He dies for lack of discipline, and because of his great folly he is led astray.”
Observation-What does it say?
In this Proverb, an illustration is given about a man who is warned to watch out. Watch out from being enticed by the forbidden woman, who seduces him with her speech and wandering ways. He is told to stay far away from her and to enjoy the wife of his youth, instead of being intoxicated by the adulterous woman. He is told that lack of discipline and foolishness will lead him astray, but to guard his heart towards knowledge and understanding.
Understanding-What does it mean?
Foolishness leads us astray, but wisdom keeps us safe.
As I've read the book of Proverbs, wisdom is referred to as a female "she/woman/her" and foolishness is also referred to in the same manner. Although this chapter speaks specifically on the issue of adultery, in the big picture view, it refers to more than just adultery, but anything else that entices us towards sin. Anything that is forbidden that would lead us down a foolish path instead of the path of wisdom, must be avoided. The answer to living wisely is to be open to correction and discipline and not to ignore it. Wisdom accepts correction and advice.
Proverbs 12:1- “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.”
Proverbs 19:20 “Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.”
Life Application
Be open to correction and advice from God's Word and those God has placed in our lives, especially our Spirit filled leaders. We must accept, rather than reject correction.
A prideful heart will lead to destruction and in this chapter, the man (or woman) is led astray when they choose the foolish path. The foolish person hates discipline/correction and would not listen to the voice and advice of his/her teachers. The wise person however, is humble, pure of heart and teachable. The word wise can also be replaced with the word Spirit and foolishness can be replaced with the word flesh.
Dear Lord, thank You for Your Word and the wisdom in it that is so applicable for our lives today. I admit that there are times when I have gotten very defensive with correction because of pride. Please forgive me and cleanse me of that. I pray that we would remain humble and teachable and submit to correction, especially from You and the leaders You have placed over our lives. We desire to be counted among the wise, not the foolish. We desire to be led by Your Spirit instead of our flesh. Thank You Lord for not leaving us and helping us through this journey of relinquishing our pride and control. Amen.