Which other Proverbs emphasize the dangers of excessive indulgence? Setting the scene—Proverbs 23:20 “Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat.” Companion verses on dangerous drinking • Proverbs 20:1 – “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” • Proverbs 21:17 – “He who loves pleasure will become poor; the one who loves wine and oil will never be rich.” • Proverbs 23:29-35 – vivid, step-by-step fallout of lingering over wine: confusion, pain, lost self-control, addiction. • Proverbs 31:4-5 – “It is not for kings…to drink wine…lest they drink and forget what is decreed…” Verses warning against overeating and unchecked appetite • Proverbs 23:2 – “…put a knife to your throat if you possess a great appetite.” • Proverbs 23:3 – “Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive.” • Proverbs 23:21 – “For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe them in rags.” • Proverbs 25:16 – “If you find honey, eat just what you need, lest you have too much and vomit it up.” • Proverbs 25:27 – “It is not good to eat too much honey or to search out one’s own glory.” • Proverbs 28:7 – “A discerning son keeps the law, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.” Shared consequences these proverbs lay out • Loss of wisdom and clear judgment (20:1; 31:5) • Physical misery and humiliation (23:29-35) • Poverty and raggedness (21:17; 23:21) • Damage to reputation and relationships (28:7) • Dullness of spirit that blinds to God’s commands (23:33-34) Putting the wisdom to work Scripture speaks plainly and literally: unchecked appetite—whether for food, drink, or simple pleasure—opens the door to bondage. The way of wisdom is measured enjoyment under God’s lordship. By heeding these proverbs we guard our minds, resources, and witness, choosing the disciplined path that leads to life and honor. |
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