In the midst of our fast-paced and open lives, moral fallibility rarely stems from big decisions that are realised at the outset. More often than not, they are born from small omissions that are left unchecked: conversations that feel safe, attention that is taken for granted, or private messages that start out as small talk. Many people never intend to go too far, but forget that unchecked steps sooner or later lose their way. When old advice is deemed no longer relevant, humans begin to walk without signposts.
Proverbs 6:20-35 speaks right into this space of inattention. The teaching begins with the typical greeting, "O my son", a relational expression that confirms that this advice is born out of concern. The wisdom teacher reminds us that the father's commandments and the mother's teachings are to be kept, anchored in the heart and hung around the neck. In the tradition of Ancient Israel, family education was seen as very important; listening to and keeping the teachings of parents was synonymous with receiving wisdom itself. In fact, the commands and teachings of parents were equated with the commands and teachings of God, as described in the Torah.
The teaching is described as having a tangible function: guiding when walking, guarding when lying down, and greeting when getting up. Through the message line of verse 23, the teacher of wisdom explains why, "For the commandment is a lamp, and the precept is a light, and the reproof that teaches is the way of life." The lamp and light help a person see their direction, avoid danger, and not stumble. Educating rebuke is not punishment, but rather a means of formation towards a full life.
In particular, this teaching serves as a safeguard against the dangers of adultery. The teacher of wisdom asserts that the fall often stems from a heart left captivated and eyes unguarded. Adultery is described not only as a moral offence, but as an act that ruins lives, bringing humiliation, suffering, and even death. Unlike theft, which can still be atoned for, the wounds of adultery leave a disgrace that is difficult to erase.
Friends of the Bible, today's devotional invites us to take care of the wisdom we have received. Living in the light is not a life without temptation, but a life that is willing to be constantly guarded. When commandments become lamps and teachings become light, people are enabled to walk the path of life. A path that brings wholeness, firmness, and true peace.
