What is the meaning of Proverbs 23:31? Do not gaze Proverbs 23:31 opens with a simple but forceful command: “Do not gaze….” The verse assumes that what we stare at soon captures our hearts (cf. Proverbs 4:25). Lingering looks nurture lingering desires. Job made a covenant with his eyes to keep himself from sin (Job 31:1), and Jesus warns that unchecked looking can become adultery of the heart (Matthew 5:28). In the same way, the text tells us to turn our eyes away before fascination becomes fixation. Key ideas • Our eyes are entry points to temptation (Genesis 3:6; 1 John 2:16). • Early refusal is easier than late resistance (James 1:14–15). At wine The object of the gaze is “wine,” representing any enticing substance or habit that can enslave. Proverbs 20:1 declares, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” The call is not merely about a beverage but about refusing anything that can master us (1 Corinthians 6:12). Helpful reminders • Intoxication blurs judgment (Isaiah 28:7). • Spiritual alertness is incompatible with impairment (Ephesians 5:18; 1 Peter 5:8). While it is red Ancient vintners prized a deep red color; the hue signaled richness and strength. Scripture often notes that sin presents itself attractively (Proverbs 9:17). Esau traded his birthright for “that red stew” (Genesis 25:30), a vivid example of choosing immediate gratification over long-term blessing. Takeaways • External appeal can disguise internal danger (Proverbs 26:23). • Discernment looks past surface beauty to ultimate outcome (Proverbs 22:3). When it sparkles in the cup The sparkle is the glint of light on the liquid—eye-catching, mesmerizing. Temptation flashes promise but hides pain. Proverbs 7:13–23 uses similar imagery for sexual temptation: alluring words that shine yet lead to destruction. In both cases, the glitter is bait. Points to note • Temptation often dazzles first, damages later (James 1:17 vs. 1:14–15). • True wisdom sees that deceptive shine and steps back (Proverbs 14:15). And goes down smoothly The first sip feels pleasing, harmless, soothing. Yet the next verse warns, “In the end it bites like a snake and stings like a viper” (Proverbs 23:32). Sin’s path is gradual: comfort, compromise, captivity. The smooth beginning camouflages the bitter end, echoing Proverbs 5:3–4, where the adulteress’s lips drip honey but her end is wormwood. Contrast • Immediate ease vs. eventual agony (Galatians 6:7–8). • Short-lived pleasure vs. long-term cost (Hebrews 11:25). summary Proverbs 23:31 is God’s loving warning to arrest temptation at the eye-gate. The wine’s color, sparkle, and smoothness symbolize any allure that draws us from wisdom. By refusing the first fascinated glance, we avoid the subtle progression from admiration to addiction. Looking away early preserves freedom, honors the Lord who alone satisfies, and spares us the serpent’s bite that inevitably follows sin’s smooth first swallow. |
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