31 - Part 2 [Notes]

Join us for 31, a month-long journey through the wisdom of Proverbs. Each Sunday, explore practical themes like work, parenting, and the power of our words while learning how godly wisdom can shape every area of our lives. With daily readings and Sunday messages, this series invites us to grow in our relationship with God and others by applying His truth in transformative ways.

Takeaway: Walking God’s path leads to life.

There is a way that seems right to a person, but its end is the way to death.
– Proverbs 14:1 (CSB)

My son, pay attention to my wisdom; listen closely to my understanding, so that you may maintain discretion and your lips safeguard knowledge. Though the lips of the forbidden woman drip honey and her words are smoother than oil, in the end she’s as bitter as wormwood and as sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps head straight for Sheol. She doesn’t consider the path of life; she doesn’t know that her ways are unstable. So now, sons, listen to me, and don’t turn away from the words of my mouth. Keep your way far from her. Don’t go near the door of her house. Otherwise, you will give up your vitality to others and your years to someone cruel; strangers will drain your resources, and your hard-earned pay will end up in a foreigner’s house. At the end of your life, you will lament when your physical body has been consumed, and you will say, “How I hated discipline, and how my heart despised correction. I didn’t obey my teachers or listen closely to my instructors. I am on the verge of complete ruin before the entire community.
– Proverbs 5:1-14 (CSB)

“My Son” or “My Sons”

“The term ‘my son’ is not limited to Solomon’s biological offspring but is employed as a pedagogical term common in wisdom literature. It conveys a fatherly relationship between the teacher and the learner, reflecting God’s care for His covenant people.”
– Bruce K. Waltke

She doesn’t consider the path of life; she doesn’t know that her ways are unstable.
– Proverbs 5:6 (CSB)

I am teaching you the way of wisdom; I am guiding you on straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hindered; when you run, you will not stumble.
– Proverbs 4:11-12 (CSB)

Keep your way far from her. Don’t go near the door of her house.
– Proverbs 5:8 (CSB)

The one who walks with the wise will become wise, but a companion of fools will suffer harm.
– Proverbs 13:20 (CSB)

My son, if sinners entice you, don’t be persuaded.
– Proverbs 1:10 (CSB)

Do not be deceived: "Bad company corrupts good morals."
– 1 Corinthians 15:33 (CSB)

My son, pay attention to my wisdom; listen closely to my understanding, so that you may maintain discretion and your lips safeguard knowledge.”  
– Proverbs 5:1-2 (CSB)

So, whoever thinks he stands must be careful not to fall.
– 1 Corinthians 10:12 (CSB)

My sheep hear my voice, I know them, and they follow me.
– John 10:27 (CSB)

A thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance. 
– John 10:10 (CSB)

1. Think of a time when you or someone you know took the wrong path—like getting lost on a hike, taking a wrong turn, or making a decision that led to unexpected consequences. What happened, and what did you learn from it?
2. Proverbs highlights the “path of life” as the way of wisdom, peace, flourishing, and more. Read Proverbs 3:5-6, Proverbs 4:11-12, and Proverbs 5:6. What practical examples can you share of what it looks like to walk God’s path in everyday life? (i.e. in relationships, work, finances, etc.)
3. Proverbs also warns about the “path of the wicked.” Read Proverbs 1:10-16, Proverbs 4:14-15, and Proverbs 5:8-11. What are some modern examples of how we might be tempted to take this path? What are some of the consequences of following these paths, as described in Proverbs?
4. As Pastor Josh shared in the message, Proverbs frequently uses the phrase “My son” to reflect a father’s loving guidance. How does this remind us that God is our good Father who wants what is best for us? Read James 1:5 and discuss how God invites us to ask Him for wisdom. How does this show His desire to help us live a righteous, abundant life?
5. After reflecting on Proverbs 5, what specific path or decision do you feel God is calling you to address or change? How can you lean into God’s wisdom and strength this week to walk His path? Take a moment to pray, asking for His guidance and help.

Trustworthy // Abandoned // O Praise the Name // Psalm 23

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