Proverbs 23:21

For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe them in rags.

Study Bible

for the drunkard
The Hebrew word for "drunkard" is "סֹבֵא" (sobe), which refers to one who habitually drinks to excess. In the ancient Near Eastern context, drunkenness was often associated with a lack of self-control and moral decay. The Bible consistently warns against excessive drinking, as it leads to impaired judgment and a departure from godly living. The drunkard is depicted as someone who prioritizes temporary pleasure over long-term well-being, ultimately leading to ruin.

and the glutton
The term "glutton" comes from the Hebrew "זָלַל" (zalal), meaning to be lavish or wasteful, particularly with food. Gluttony, like drunkenness, is a form of excess that reflects a lack of discipline. In biblical times, food was a precious resource, and overindulgence was seen as a misuse of God's provision. Gluttony is often linked with laziness and a disregard for the needs of others, highlighting a self-centered lifestyle that neglects spiritual and communal responsibilities.

will come to poverty
"Poverty" in Hebrew is "רֵישׁ" (resh), indicating a state of need or destitution. The verse warns that the lifestyle of excess, whether through drinking or eating, leads to financial and spiritual impoverishment. This is not merely a material condition but also a metaphor for spiritual bankruptcy. The Bible teaches that wise stewardship and self-control are essential for a life that honors God and sustains one's household.

and drowsiness
"Drowsiness" is translated from the Hebrew "תַּרְדֵּמָה" (tardemah), which implies a state of lethargy or slothfulness. This term suggests a lack of vigilance and alertness, both physically and spiritually. In the biblical worldview, drowsiness is often a consequence of indulgence and neglect of one's duties. It serves as a warning against complacency and the dangers of not being spiritually awake and active in one's faith.

will clothe them in rags
The imagery of being "clothed in rags" symbolizes disgrace and humiliation. In ancient cultures, clothing was a sign of one's status and dignity. To be dressed in rags was to be visibly marked by failure and poverty. This phrase underscores the inevitable outcome of a life given to excess and laziness. It serves as a vivid reminder that the choices we make have tangible consequences, both in this life and in our spiritual journey. The call is to pursue righteousness and wisdom, which lead to honor and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Drunkard
This refers to an individual who excessively consumes alcohol, leading to a lack of self-control and poor decision-making.

2. The Glutton
This person indulges excessively in food, often prioritizing physical desires over spiritual and moral responsibilities.

3. Poverty
A state of lacking material wealth, often resulting from poor choices and lack of discipline.

4. Drowsiness
A metaphor for laziness or a lack of vigilance, leading to a decline in productivity and eventual poverty.

5. Rags
Symbolic of the destitution and shame that result from a lifestyle of excess and neglect of responsibilities.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Excess
Both drunkenness and gluttony are forms of excess that can lead to physical and spiritual poverty. Christians are called to practice moderation and self-control.

The Consequences of Laziness
Drowsiness, or laziness, can lead to a lack of productivity and eventual poverty. Believers are encouraged to be diligent and hardworking.

The Importance of Self-Control
Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit and is essential in avoiding the pitfalls of excess and laziness. It helps maintain a balanced and disciplined life.

Spiritual and Physical Stewardship
Christians are stewards of their bodies and resources. Avoiding excess and laziness is part of honoring God with what He has given us.

The Call to Vigilance
Being spiritually and physically alert prevents the descent into poverty and shame. Vigilance in our spiritual walk is crucial for maintaining a life that honors God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the lifestyle of a drunkard or glutton lead to poverty, both physically and spiritually?

2. In what ways can drowsiness or laziness manifest in a believer's life, and what are the potential consequences?

3. How can we apply the principle of self-control in our daily lives to avoid the pitfalls mentioned in Proverbs 23:21?

4. What other scriptures reinforce the importance of moderation and self-control, and how can they guide us in our walk with Christ?

5. How can we encourage one another in our communities to practice diligence and avoid the dangers of excess and laziness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 21:17
This verse warns that those who love pleasure and luxury will become poor, reinforcing the idea that indulgence leads to poverty.

1 Corinthians 6:12
Paul speaks about the importance of self-control and not being mastered by anything, which relates to the dangers of excess in Proverbs 23:21.

Galatians 5:19-21
Lists the acts of the flesh, including drunkenness and orgies, which are contrary to living by the Spirit and can lead to spiritual and physical poverty.