Proverbs 23:1-3 When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee: And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite. Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat. 

Five instructions from a father to his son (23:1-5): [1] Consider carefully who is before you and act wisely accordingly (23:1). A ruler’s table was not the place for careless words or uncontrolled behaviour. Wisdom discerns the importance of the moment, the character of the ruler, and the need for restraint and understanding. Wise men understand that character, humility, and wisdom open doors more than appetite does. A person in authority may be observing your self-control, manners, conversation, greed, humility, and whether you can be trusted with responsibility. [2] Put a knife to your throat – exercise strict self-control (23:2). This vivid figure of speech does not advocate literal harm, but strong self-discipline and restraint. The warning is against gluttony, greed, and uncontrolled appetites. A glutton gives the impression of being immature, lacking self-control, and untrustworthy. Temperance and moderation leave a favourable impression, especially among leaders and people of influence. Scripture consistently presents self-control as evidence of wisdom, maturity, and spiritual strength (16:32). [3] Do not lust after delicacies or become impressed by luxury (23:3). The ruler’s luxurious food is called “deceitful meat” because outward luxury can hide hidden motives, obligations, temptations, or pride. The warning is against covetousness, craving luxury, pretending sophistication, or acting as though wealth and status are the highest good. A wise man remains composed whether among kings or common men and is not spiritually weakened by material attraction. Sometimes favours and gifts from powerful people come with expectations attached, and therefore, discernment is necessary. To be continued…

Proverbs 23:1-3 When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee: And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite. Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat. 

Five examples of men given to appetite: [1] Esau traded his birthright for one meal (Gen. 25:30-34). Temporary craving caused him to despise long-term spiritual blessing. His appetite ruled his judgment. [2] Isaac’s love for savoury food influenced his decisions concerning Esau and caused hatred between his sons (Gen. 25:28; 27:4). Personal appetite weakened spiritual discernment. [3] Nabal feasted excessively and became drunk during a time requiring wisdom and humility (1Sam. 25:36). His indulgence reflected pride and foolishness. [4] Belshazzar held a great feast while judgment approached his kingdom (Daniel 5). In the midst of pleasure and pride, the handwriting appeared on the wall announcing his downfall. His appetite blinded him to spiritual danger. [5] False teachers (Php. 3:18-19). Paul said of some: “whose god is their belly.” Their lives were governed by earthly desires instead of truth and righteousness.

Proverbs 23 teaches that appetite is a good servant but a terrible master. Whether the appetite is for food, wealth, pleasure, honour, or luxury, wisdom requires self-government. A disciplined person can stand before rulers with dignity, but a person ruled by appetite eventually loses honour, discernment, and stability.

To be continued…