Daniel 12, 1 John 5, Proverbs 23:1-9
Proverbs 23:1-3 (ESV)
"When you sit down to eat with a ruler, observe
carefully what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are given
to appetite. Do not desire his delicacies, for they are deceptive food."
In Proverbs 23:1–3, Solomon reminds believers to be cautious
when dining with powerful people, such as kings or leaders. A believer should
exercise discernment because what is set before them represents more than
food—it may carry motives, expectations, or influence. The believer must
consider why they were invited and what implications may follow. Solomon urges
believers to seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in navigating these encounters.
The phrase “put a knife to your throat” symbolizes self-control. Believers may
face temptation, so they must maintain discipline and integrity, ensuring their
thoughts and actions remain aligned with their faith.
These verses apply not only to interactions with powerful
individuals but also to modern life, where believers are surrounded by
entertainment and social media that parade the lifestyles of the wealthy.
Society encourages us to desire what the rich have—to imitate how they live,
dress, and travel, as if becoming like them is essential to success. This
desire can quietly lead a believer into sin.
I experienced this when I pursued promotion in my career. I
studied how executives spoke, dressed, and behaved, believing imitation was
necessary for advancement. That is what business books suggest. But along the
way I also noticed greed, selfishness, and ruthlessness among those I was
trying to emulate. I began to question whether I was becoming like them. The
Holy Spirit’s answer was always no. Yet the questioning created stress and
robbed me of peace. Only by returning to my faith did I find peace again.
If these verses resonate with you—if you feel compelled to
place your faith in Jesus Christ, who can give you a life filled with
peace—this could be your moment. Open your heart to Him. Speak to Him in the
following prayer and express your trust in Him. Share your desire to walk with
Him and welcome His presence into your life. God is faithful and ready to meet
you wherever you are.
Heavenly Father, I give You my life. Please forgive me for
all my sins and wash me clean through the blood of Jesus. I believe in my heart
that You raised Jesus from the dead, and I confess with my mouth that Jesus is
my Lord and Savior. Right now, I receive Your forgiveness and the gift of
salvation. Thank You, Lord—I am saved, I am forgiven, I am clean, and I am made
new in Jesus’ name. Amen.
If you prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of
Father-God! I encourage you to find and join a Holy Spirit-filled, full-Gospel,
Bible-based church where you can grow in your faith and experience the Lord’s
love, signs, wonders, and miracles in your life.
No comments:
Post a Comment