Thought for the Day

Verses 10-13 - Many of the instructions in Proverbs promote longevity of life. One of those teachings is that children obey their parents. Those who disobey may expose themselves to dangerous situations that can ultimately take their lives. Many young people think they are smarter than their parents; calling them "old-fashioned" and saying that they do not know what they are talking about. They do not recognize that with age comes something only time can produce: experience. In failing to take advantage of their elders' experiences, they miss opportunities to learn valuable lessons that can keep them from harm and prevent them from making the same mistakes that their elders made.

The warning to men to stay away from loose women (and women from lustful men) also brings long life if heeded. Those who remain chaste before marriage avoid emotional pain and the risk of sexually-transmitted diseases. Virgins enter marriage free from the emotional scars of previous relationships or the stigma of disease which they could transmit to their spouse.

Heeding the admonishment to avoid bad company also adds years to one's life. Getting involved with the wrong kind of people, and choosing their ways rather than the Lord's can lead to ruin and even death. It is true that there is "no honor among thieves." Members of the "wrong crowd" commit all kinds of crimes, including theft. If they steal from others, in time they will steal from you, even if they claim to be your friends. They can also stoop to murder, and you could be a victim of their anger and lack of morals.

These are but a few of the things that the Bible mentions we should avoid in order to obtain the promise of long life. In following God's instructions and applying godly wisdom, we will not stumble and fall, but will walk in the pathway of life. When we are determined to walk in God's ways, He watches over us, keeping us from the evils that Satan wants to bring upon us.