Do you like snakes? I grew up next to a lake in Florida. It was not uncommon to open the front door and discover a water moccasin coiled up on the welcome mat. I promise you, I didn’t reach down to pet it; nor did I welcome it into our house. While most of us would never willingly touch a poisonous snake, we do struggle with staying away from substances and practices that could “bite” us. In this week's session, Staying Sober, Solomon refers to two things that he says bite like a snake and sting like a viper (Proverbs 23:32). He gives us wisdom regarding allowing something other than God to control our lives.
This is the first step we all should take when considering the dangers of any practice that is questionable. The practice might look appealing and you might envy the visible outcomes of others who have participated. In an effort to scratch the itch of your envy, you may choose to take steps toward experiencing what they seem to enjoy. Such a temptation will wreak havoc on your life both physically and spiritually. We should place our hope in the Lord. As Solomon states in verse 18, Hope in Him will never be dashed!
On the heels of this instruction, Solomon transitions to the destruction that comes through two apparent practices that were prevalent then and are obviously prevalent today as well – drunkenness and gluttony. Proverbs 23:19-21 and Proverbs 23:29-35 will deal with these two practices.
The downloadable teaching helps and video Bible study provide an overview of how to avoid being controlled by these two practices.
DOWNLOADABLE TEACHING IDEAS
The ideas give you a "script" for teaching online or sharing via email. This week's helps include a suggested humorous video you can send to your group in advance.
VIDEO SESSION
Consider sharing this link with your group if you are unable to meet online, or share it with your church members who aren't connected to a group.
