stephen R Harrison

In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has. – Proverbs 21:20

My son has trouble with self-control when it comes to eating popsicles. We were at a church student ministry event one of our student leaders was hosting at their home. While visiting with some of the students and leaders inside, some kids played outside. One of the kids came in and said, “Your son just threw up!”. We went out to check on him (and sorry if this is a gross image) and saw him standing over a bright red puddle. He instantly said, “I ate too many popsicles”. When pressed, he admitted he ate the whole box we bought the day before – all 12! While popsicles are a great treat, one should probably not eat the entire lot at once. We don’t need a warning on the box for this one – well, maybe some 8-year-olds do?  

Solomon warns throughout the Proverbs not to devour all our money, food, and other provisions in an out-of-control fashion. We consume food and spend money in unhealthy ways for several reasons. Sometimes, we do it to feel better about ourselves or forget some problem. Whatever the reason, Solomon says the fool swallows everything in gluttony and without thinking about future ramifications. If we devour everything we have, we may not have the necessary provisions for future needs. Think about the guy who spends his entire paycheck on the next boy toy like a gun, car modifications, or video game system, and can’t afford to pay the rent or electric bill. He has failed to provide for his family in that instance. Proverbs 21 Men must learn to save money for unnecessary purchases after providing for their family’s basic needs. 

The Proverbs man doesn’t spend money he doesn’t have or fail to save for unforeseen expenses. What good is it to have all the latest toys if we can’t afford to repair the alternator in our wife’s car or the dishwasher? Instead, the Proverbs man seeks greater treasures such as righteousness and love (21). Solomon says he gains more in this pursuit, like “life, prosperity, and honor”.  Men can also display a lack of self-control in other areas, such as consuming alcohol. I do not drink because of all the damage I’ve seen it lead to in the lives of others. I also think it’s a bad witness for those who struggle with alcoholism. While the Bible does not forbid alcohol, it calls drunkenness a sin (Galatians 5:21, Romans 13:13, 1 Peter 4:3, etc.). Consuming alcohol may also be unwise as it may lead to an inability to think clearly. In 25 years of counseling others, I’ve seen it lead to affairs, theft, fights, and a host of other stupidity. Solomon warns against its consequences, like loose lips and brawling (20:1). Proverbs 21 men let the Spirit control them, not alcohol (Ephesians 5:18).

Sometimes, men are unwise in their finances and alcohol consumption to prove their strength. Solomon says wisdom comes from knowing one’s power limit and how to use it for righteous purposes (22). A wise man also knows how to “guard his mouth and tongue” to avoid trouble (23). The Proverbs 21 man knows how to say no to impulse purchases as they are rooted in selfishness and greed. He also knows how to say yes to providing for his family, even saying yes to overtime work or a second job to ensure basic needs are met. He doesn’t spend on himself first. He sacrifices so that those he loves have what they need. He doesn’t buy alcohol when he can’t afford the water bill. Solomon says a greedy man “all day long craves for more”, but a righteous man “gives without sparing” (26). The Proverbs man “gives thought to his ways” (29). Men, we must be self-controlled and exhibit moderation in our finances and appetites. 

Questions to Ponder

1. In what do you lack self-control?
2. While some things aren’t inherently sinful, they may be unwise to pursue. Does this describe any of your life?
3. What verse stands out the most to you?
4. What other questions came to mind?

Actions to Take

1. List ways you can be more wise in your finances.
2. Read Proverbs 21. What other words of advice speak to you concerning moderation?

Scriptures to Read

Proverbs 16:32-33, 25:16-17, 25:28

Prayers to Pray

Jesus, help me exercise self-control in all areas of life. Help me avoid unwise financial decisions by putting you first in them. Help me exercise generosity towards my church, my family, and others. Help me find security and worth in you, not possessions. Help me avoid abusing alcohol and using it to ignore other issues in my life. Control me with your Spirit.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.