Proverbs 23 Commentary

Exercise restraint and discernment when you are offered a seat of power and plenty.

Self-control is essential to living wisely and avoiding the pitfalls of excess.

This verse warns against being enticed by outward luxuries that may harm one’s spiritual perspective.

This verse reminds us not to exhaust ourselves chasing prosperity, but to rest in God’s provision and wisdom.

Earthly wealth is fragile and fleeting, so we are urged to trust in the unfailing riches of God.

This verse exhorts us not to depend on the empty promises of the selfish, but instead to choose the path of wisdom and trust in God.

Beware the rift between outward actions and inward thoughts—true character arises from the heart.

Keep watch over your heart and motives, lest short-lived pleasures spoil the soul.

This verse teaches restraint in offering wisdom to those unwilling to accept it.

Disregarding the rightful property of others erodes trust and introduces strife, while upholding our neighbor’s welfare fosters peace and blessing.

God defends those who are oppressed and holds the oppressor accountable in His power as Redeemer.

True wisdom involves a heart eager for discipline and ears open to knowledge.

Disciplining a child in love builds character and safeguards them from a myriad of pitfalls in life.

Discipline, when anchored in love and guided by wisdom, is intended to protect a child’s future.

This verse highlights that parental or spiritual mentors find the greatest joy when they see those they love choosing a path shaped by godly insight.

This verse underscores that the sincere and righteous speech of God’s people produces deep joy in those who love wisdom.

Do not allow envy to distract you from honoring God, instead choosing to live in reverential awe of Him.

All of Proverbs 23:18 is a powerful assurance that God’s promise of a future and lasting hope stands unshakeable.

This verse encourages believers to listen carefully, apply godly insight, and focus their inner motives on the righteous path.

A life of wisdom maintains discipline over appetites, ensuring that enjoyment remains a blessing rather than a burden.

A brief summary is that those who persistently indulge their appetites without self-control put themselves at great risk of impoverishment, bringing both hardship and shame.

Honor and respect toward parents strengthen our relationship with them and with God.

Treasure God’s truth, and never trade away the gift of His wisdom.

This verse teaches that wise, upright living blesses our loved ones and honors God.

This verse calls children to live in a manner that fills their parents with gladness and gratitude.

Give your heart to God and live in the light of His wisdom.

Sin can easily entangle the unsuspecting and lead them into deeper spiritual trouble.

This verse teaches us to heed every warning against moral compromise.

Emotional and physical harm often result from unchecked desires, calling us to live by God’s wisdom instead of fleeting distractions.

A concise perspective: This verse alerts believers against the trap of excessive drinking, reminding them to practice self-restraint and pursue God’s wisdom instead.

Proverbs 23:31 encourages believers to guard themselves from the deceptive appeal of wine, warning that what looks enticing in the moment can lead to spiritual and physical harm.

A short summary of this verse is that hidden or deceptive pleasures, no matter how alluring, eventually result in painful consequences.

Be vigilant over your desires and guard your mind against the illusions that lead to skewed perceptions and harmful words.

Like mindless drifting in dangerous seas, the one enslaved by drink loses sound judgment.

This verse reminds us that pursuing temporary relief or excitement can lead us into harmful, repetitive cycles.