Proverbs is the instruction of a father and mother to their son, a young man getting ready to go off into the world. But today, we hear another voice competing for his attention…
An evil plan
Read Proverbs 1:8
• What is the son being encouraged to do in verses 11-14?
• Why might this course of action seem attractive?
You can understand why this way of life would be alluring to a young man: the promise of acceptance among his peers, quick riches, physical violence that would leave him feeling strong.
• What's the father's straightforward advice in these type of situations (v 15)?
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APPLY
You may not face this exact kind of peer pressure in your life.
• But are you consciously looking out for times and places where it’s easy to listen to “wisdom” that isn’t from God?
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Notice he describes the actions of the gang as a “way” and a “path”. These “sinners” are enticing the young man not just into one isolated act of violence, but into an entire way of life. So the father warns his son: don't start down that path.
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TIME OUT… Read Exodus 20:1
Compare the Ten Commandments with the father’s counsel here.
• What are the similarities?
• What does this show us about the relationship between wisdom and God’s law?
• Should we be wise because it is the right thing to do (since God says “do not murder” and “do not steal”) or because wisdom brings us blessings in life?
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Some awful consequences
Read Proverbs 1:16
• What are the consequences of joining this “gang”?
• How does this compare to listening to wisdom (v 8-9)?
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APPLY
• Where are you tempted to sin by the example or encouragement of others?
• What might be the consequences of that sin?
• What might be the blessings of obedience in that particular situation?
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This devotional is taken from Explore—a daily Bible-reading devotional from the good book company which enables you to engage with Scripture and which will encourage, equip and inspire you to live for Christ. Explore features contributions from pastors such as Dr Timothy Keller, Mike McKinley and Tim Chester.
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