(Proverbs 23)
We really do not want to talk about it, for whatever reason.
It may be because we have friends and relatives that do it, or because it is commonly accepted in our churches.
The topic? Come close to the screen and I’ll whisper it to you…
“Self Indulgence”
It’s specifically here in Proverbs 23:20
“Do not be with heavy drinkers of wine” (23:20a,b) Yes, drinking parties are condemned in scripture – (Isa. 5:11, 22; 56:12; Hab. 2:15; Matt 24:49; Luke 21:34; romans 13:13; Eph. 5:18)
The warning here is to not be in the presence of heavy drinkers. Why? Because we tend to be influenced more than we influence in such situations.
Coupled with this instruction is…
“Do not be with…. gluttonous eaters of meat;” (23:20a,c)
Yes, this is saying for us not hang around people who eat to much.
This is why I don’t go to Golden Corral… well at least now I have a scriptural reason.
But seriously the scriptures denounce gluttony (Prov. 23:2, 28:7; Matt 11:19; Phil. 3:19; Titus 1:12)
And this passage instructs us to stay away from those who are reckless with their eating habits for they are just as dangerous as those who are reckless with their drinking habits. They are both heading to the same end…
“For the heavy drinker and the glutton will come to poverty and drowsiness will clothe a man with rags.” (23:21)
So if you are with people who are drinking it up on the weekends or during the week… its time to say good bye to that life style.
Or if you are with people who are eating it up on the weekends or during the week… its time to say good bye to them as well.
Unless of course you want that type of influence in your life…
if so, just remember poverty of spirit, mind and money is in your future. And will rob you of any lasting or deep relationships…
for poverty is more than how much money you may, or may not have.
Ok… I’m done whispering.
What did you see in the passage today?
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