If you are a parent, teacher, or ever worked with and cared for children, you can relate to this Proverb. “Why don’t you just listen to me?” is a cry often heard in the classroom, home, and stores across our land as a frustrated caregiver laments the disobedience of a child. Even more tragic is when a child grows up to be a rebellious teen or out of control adult.
If only they would learn from our mistakes. We could save them a world of pain and trouble.
Solomon begins by saying, “Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching.” Pr 1:8 This proverb begins with the same familiar plea from a father. Wisdom is being shared and Solomon longs for his listen to his plea and not turn from his mother’s teaching.
What is so serious that demands such a preface? The seduction of sin. In Prov. 1:9-19, Solomon explores ways sinners attempt to entice the foolish to join them. They will make offers of wealth and pleasures, but it is all folly. Truly, they are ambushing and destroying themselves.
Sinners love to bring along company in their sin. Mobs grow and turn into rioters because they feel empowered by the crowd. Sinners try to entice us by showing the alleged benefits. “Look at the fame, look at the fortune, look at the influence you can gain”, they say. Any temporary gains, lead to ruin. If not in this life, then in eternity.
Let us hear Solomon today and not go with the sinner when enticed.
Ramblings by James 