Proverbs 20

Read Proverbs 20

“Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.” The answer for life is not found at the bottom of a bottle, but in a life lived in the worship of the Almighty. There is no wisdom in addiction—only bondage.

Then why do so many young people fall into trouble with drugs and alcohol? Can anyone help them to find a better reason for living? “The purpose in a man's heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out.”

Those who are just entering adulthood may have a hard time catching the vision of a long life ahead of them. One big disappointment happens and everything may seem to crumble. A godly mentor can make such a difference in helping a troubled soul to find the Lord and a life of godliness that can extend to future generations. “The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!”

Of course, only the Lord can enlighten the eyes of someone's heart so that he will see the beauty of holy living. Nonetheless, a friend can be used by God to help someone who is open to wisdom. He can be a good voice of godly counsel.

The Lord has given us a natural system of dedicated and loving guidance in a well-ordered family. The young ones can 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 youth in a faithful extended family, God can provide an older relation who is loved and respected. But if someone hates the people he should be following, who will he listen to when he needs a voice to redirect his way? “If one curses his father or his mother, his lamp will be put out in utter darkness.”

Even when a family is in such disrepair that there is no one nearby who is worth emulating, anyone who knows and loves the Savior has the most worthy King that he should imitate. Our Lord grants us a new spirit of wisdom that searches out the deep waters of a person's heart. The Almighty can find in that struggling soul not only any dangerous weakness but also God's good gift which brings the one who will listen to God's Word such potential for greatness.

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.

Prayer from A Book of Prayers

Great God, please keep us from drunkenness and addiction. Restrain us from all movements toward wickedness and sin. These things lead to death. Keep us working at our appointed posts where we serve You day by day. Thank You for the diligence, righteousness, and faithfulness of Jesus Christ. He had no stain of sin. He made Himself known by His conduct. His lips brought forth knowledge. He did nothing by deceit, but always served You by the wisest counsel of His own pure heart. He did not repay evil with evil, but came to die for our rebellion. He has given Himself to You in complete holiness. In His Spirit is the most complete purity of holiness. Grant us this Spirit even now.