Proverbs 5
Proverbs 5 conveys profound warnings and wisdom about life’s important choices—especially concerning sexual temptation and faithfulness. In a tone like a father urging his son, it calls on us not to get caught in the sweet words of an immoral woman (one who entices). The chapter clearly contrasts the path of fleeting and dangerous pleasures with the results produced by sincere love and steadfast fidelity, urging deep reflection on human nature and the path of life.
1verseMy son, pay attention to my wisdom. Turn your ear to my understanding,
2versethat you may maintain discretion, that your lips may preserve knowledge.
3verseFor the lips of an adulteress drip honey. Her mouth is smoother than oil,
4versebut in the end she is as bitter as wormwood, and as sharp as a two-edged sword.
5verseHer feet go down to death. Her steps lead straight to Sheol.
6verseShe gives no thought to the way of life. Her ways are crooked, and she doesn’t know it.
7verseNow therefore, my sons, listen to me. Don’t depart from the words of my mouth.
8verseRemove your way far from her. Don’t come near the door of her house,
9verselest you give your honor to others, and your years to the cruel one;
10verselest strangers feast on your wealth, and your labors enrich another man’s house.
11verseYou will groan at your latter end, when your flesh and your body are consumed,
12verseand say, “How I have hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof.
13verseI haven’t obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor turned my ear to those who instructed me!
14verseI have come to the brink of utter ruin, among the gathered assembly.”
15verseDrink water out of your own cistern, running water out of your own well.
16verseShould your springs overflow in the streets, streams of water in the public squares?
17verseLet them be for yourself alone, not for strangers with you.
18verseLet your spring be blessed. Rejoice in the wife of your youth.
19verseA loving doe and a graceful deer— let her breasts satisfy you at all times. Be captivated always with her love.
20verseFor why should you, my son, be captivated with an adulteress? Why embrace the bosom of another?
21verseFor the ways of man are before the LORD’s eyes. He examines all his paths.
22verseThe evil deeds of the wicked ensnare him. The cords of his sin hold him firmly.
23verseHe will die for lack of instruction. In the greatness of his folly, he will go astray.
Structure and Development
| Verses 1–6 | The boundary between a father’s counsel and temptation |
| Verses 7–14 | The consequences that follow when you fall into temptation |
| Verses 15–20 | Emphasizing the value of faithfulness within marriage |
| Verses 21–23 | A concluding reminder that all paths are revealed before God |
Key Message
- It warns that the sweetness of immediate pleasure can quickly turn into bitterness—something that is harmful and harmful to you.
- It helps us realize the importance of maintaining our lives responsibly and making the right choices.
- It says that faithfulness to the home and one’s spouse, and purity in relationships, are the foundation of a happy life.
- It also reminds us that every road and every choice is under God’s gaze.
Points for Reflection
- In every moment of temptation, can we seek the strength to apply wisdom?
- What boundaries do I need to guard in my life?
- Take another look at what relationships and values I truly consider precious.
Applying to Myself
- In the everyday words and actions, am I living by building integrity and a sense of responsibility?
- Check whether you are choosing purity and faithfulness in your relationships with your family, friends, and neighbors.
- Let’s live by praying that today’s eyes and choices will ultimately add to wise outcomes.
