Instruction and Self-Control

(Encouraged reading: Proverbs 23)

v. 1, 4-5, 7, 9-19, 22-28 Instruction

     “Apply your heart to instruction, and your ears to words of knowledge.” Proverbs 23:12

     If there is one position, we should always fill in this life, it is that of being a student. Even Solomon, the wisest man who has or will ever live, was a student and eager learner. But it takes a humble heart to learn and apply knowledge.

     Fools, however, are obstinate in their pride and will fall. They have no desire to learn from others, and they refuse to hear others’ opinions. To their own demise, they will remain ignorant of all the wisdom they could have attained.

v. 2-3, 6, 8, 20-21, 29-35 Self-Control

     “And put a knife to your throat if you are a man given to appetite.” Proverbs 23:2

     Solomon sheds some wisdom on the idolization of eating and drinking. Consider the author, also a king, could demand anything at any time. With his vast resources, he probably knew the temptations of gluttony and drunkenness. But, even the poor can be drawn to live in excess of certain things, and some become poor from a life devoid of self-control.

     Solomon writes about over-indulging. To stop losing the battle, we must acknowledge our weaknesses, struggles, and temptations. Self-control begins with awareness. And, having accountability is like bringing warriors alongside you in the battle. When we are alone it’s easier to fall into old and bad habits, thus bringing destruction upon ourselves.

Application:

     For growing in instruction and self-control there is a common factor, humility. It is realizing that we, in and of ourselves, don’t have all the right answers or the strength to overcome things. Do you struggle with an unteachable heart? Does your struggle with over-indulgence control you? Today we need to place these before the Lord and ask Him to give us the strength to overcome these struggles.  

Prayer:

     Lord, shed light on any unseen heart conditions or struggles we may have. If You reveal anything, help us to humble ourselves and seek help and accountability.