Day 193

My Son, Be Attentive

Read: Proverbs 4-7

Solomon wants to be sure that we take his message seriously. Again and again he calls his pupil to be attentive. He is concerned about the reception of his message because he is convinced that it will make a real difference in the life of the reader. And it will!

The major theme of this section is that we are to avoid adultery because of its tragic consequences. In vivid language we are warned about sexual sin. This warning needs to be heeded in our generation when so many, by their disobedience to God’s commands in this area of life, are losing the joy God wants to give them. Proverbs 5:18-19 teach that nurturing one’s marriage is the best defense against such temptation. “He who commits adultery has no sense; he who does it destroys himself” (6:32). All need to hear such advice in a day when television, film, and other are constantly brainwashing us with the opposite message.

One of the minor themes is a warning against laziness. We are called to observe the activity of the ant by which it provides for the future. Scripture teaches us not to be anxious about tomorrow because God takes good care of us, but he does so through means, one of which is that we work hard preparing for the future. We are told that there are seven things that are an abomination to the Lord. God hates pride, lying, hurting other people, and causing trouble.

PRAYER
Father, may all who read these words see the wisdom of following them. For Jesus’ sake. Amen.