Going into the weekend, we are going to look at Proverbs 5-7. Chapters 5 and 7 can be looked at together, giving us practical advice on resisting temptation. Temptation is always, always, always a lie, and we need the voices of our mentors and guides to speak truth into our lives in times of temptation. Then, Chapter 6 gives us a good word on work. We are all called to work. It is good for our souls!

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Good morning! It’s great to continue our journey through Proverbs together. Today, we’re wrapping up our first week in the new year by looking at chapters 5, 6, and 7. As a reminder, I’ll provide some insights into selected sections from each of these chapters.

Let’s start with Proverbs 5:7-14, which offers a strong warning against impurity and infidelity:

“7 And now, my child, listen to me, do not depart from the words of my mouth. 8 Keep your way far from her and do not go near the door of her house, 9 or she will give your honor to others and your years to the merciless. 10 Strangers will take their fill of your wealth, and your labors will go down to the house of an alien. 11 In the end of your life, you will groan, when your flesh and body are consumed. 12 You will say, ‘How I hated discipline, and my heart despised reproof! 13 I did not listen to the voice of my teachers or incline my ear to my instructors. 14 Now I am at the point of utter ruin in the public assembly.'”

This passage emphasizes the consequences of yielding to temptation, portraying a vivid picture of the destructive outcomes that result from giving in to impurity and infidelity.

Moving on to Proverbs 7:24-27, we find a similar theme regarding the dangers of false attractions and adultery:

“24 And now, my children, listen to me, and be attentive to the words of my mouth. 25 Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways; do not stray into her paths, 26 for many a victim has she laid low, and all her slain are a mighty throng. 27 Her house is the way to Sheol, going down to the chambers of death.”

This section underscores the allure of false attractions and the destructive path they lead to. It serves as a cautionary tale, warning against straying into paths that may seem appealing but ultimately lead to ruin.

Now, let’s turn our attention to Proverbs 6:6-11, which imparts wisdom about the value of hard work:

“6 Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. 7 Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, 8 she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest. 9 How long will you lie there, O sluggard? When will you arise from your sleep? 10 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, 11 and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.”

This passage draws attention to the industrious nature of ants and encourages diligence and hard work. The imagery of a sluggard—someone lazy or idle—is contrasted with the diligent ant, highlighting the importance of taking initiative and working with purpose.

In summary, these chapters provide valuable insights into resisting temptation, avoiding destructive paths, and embracing the virtue of hard work. Remembering that temptation is a lie, seeking the guidance of wise mentors, and diligently working towards our goals are timeless principles we can apply to our lives.

I hope you find inspiration and wisdom in these passages as you reflect on them over the weekend. We’ll resume our journey through Proverbs with chapter 8 on Monday. Have a wonderful weekend!