30 Wisdom SayingsSýnishorn

SAYING 7: CONTROL YOUR APPETITE

The ancient sage in Proverbs is instructing his children by teaching them to have discernment when having dinner with an influential leader or royal.  Have you ever left a meeting and wondered what just happened?  Your gut told you something wasn't right.  You felt set up.

Proverbs 23:1-3 is a micro story giving the reader a scenario and caution when meeting where there are great temptations offered. Erwin and I were walking through a house that was on the market years ago and our real estate agent had set up the "walk-through".  We realized the music playing in the house was Christian music.  The sellers' agents knew us.  They did their homework and prepped the place, for they knew how to appeal to our senses.  They had a house to sell and we were the targets.  

When invited to the table, "note well" when in the company of authority means to be discerning as to your purpose and theirs. Think carefully about all that food on the table.  Pay attention to the "WHAT" and the "WHO."  What is offered?  Who is offering it?  Are there any underlying motives?

A strong Eastern expression follows, "put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony."  Take extraordinary restraint and be cautious if you have a big appetite that you do not give in and eat everything you see.  It shows you to be a weak and susceptible person.  If you are prone to a big appetite, control yourself and do not be greedy.  Conniving leaders can capitalize on that weakness and with it lead you to destruction. 

Craving free delicacies is deceptive especially if they are a lie.  What makes a delicacy a lie?  When it is offered falsely or with ill intent, you are at risk.  A meal can be a lie and a trap.  Do not let your greed or envy destroy you.  As it is in your power, keep your conversations, meetings, business dealings, and relationships honest.  

- Pastor Kim McManus

ACTION 

Be aware in situations in which there is an unequal balance of power. Are you letting yourself be manipulated, diverted, or used because you’re distracted by the ‘free food’ someone is offering you?

PRAYER

Ask God to give you discernment for every person you meet. May your conversations always be led by honesty and love.