Proverbs 20

The answer for young men is not found at the bottom of a bottle, but in a life lived in the fear of the Lord. There is no wisdom in addiction, but only bondage.

Why do so many young men fall into trouble with drugs and alcohol? People need a knowledge of their purpose in life. The purpose in a man's heart is like deep water. A wise friend with more understanding will draw it out.

Young men have a hard time seeing the bigger picture of a long life ahead of them. One big disappointment and everything may seem to crumble. The man who can see Jesus and a life of integrity in living for Him will be a blessing to himself and to future generations.

Only the Lord can enlighten the eyes of someone's heart so that he will see the beauty of godly character. But a friend can help. He can pray and he can be a good voice of godly counsel.

The Lord has given us a natural system of dedicated and loving counsel in a well-ordered family. Here the young ones learn about the love of the Lord and see what it means to live in the fear of the Lord. When trouble comes to a young man in a faithful extended family, God can provide an older man who is loved and respected. But if someone curses his father and mother, who will he listen to when he needs a voice to redirect his way?

Even when a family is in such disrepair that there is no one nearby who is worth following, every boy who knows and loves the Savior has a worthy Friend he should follow. That Friend's Spirit searches out the deep waters of a young man's heart and finds not only the problem that kills but also the gift of the Lord which is that boy's potential for greatness.

This older Brother, the Lord who died for us, has steadfast love and faithfulness for each of His children. His Spirit can show us the way to go. He gives strength to the young and the wisdom of experience and godliness to the old. He disciplines those He loves.