BSBKJVWEBYLTASVBBEWMBT4TDBY|HymnsMusicDonate
Menu
Home  › Bibles  › Berean Standard Bible  › Proverbs 6

Proverbs 6

BSB
‹ Chapter 5 Proverbs — All Chapters Chapter 7 ›

1 My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge with a stranger, 2 if you have been trapped by the words of your lips, ensnared by the words of your mouth, 3 then do this, my son, to free yourself, for you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands: Go, humble yourself, and press your plea with your neighbor. 4 Allow no sleep to your eyes or slumber to your eyelids. 5 Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler. 6 Walk in the manner of the ant, O slacker; observe its ways and become wise. 7 Without a commander, without an overseer or ruler, 8 it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food at harvest. 9 How long will you lie there, O slacker? When will you get up from your sleep? 10 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, 11 and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and need like a bandit. 12 A worthless person, a wicked man, walks with a perverse mouth, 13 winking his eyes, speaking with his feet, and pointing with his fingers. 14 With deceit in his heart he devises evil; he continually sows discord. 15 Therefore calamity will come upon him suddenly; in an instant he will be shattered beyond recovery. 16 There are six things that the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to Him: 17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, 18 a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that run swiftly to evil, 19 a false witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up discord among brothers. 20 My son, keep your father’s commandment, and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. 21 Bind them always upon your heart; tie them around your neck. 22 When you walk, they will guide you; when you lie down, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you. 23 For this commandment is a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way to life, 24 to keep you from the evil woman, from the smooth tongue of the adulteress. 25 Do not lust in your heart for her beauty or let her captivate you with her eyes. 26 For the levy of the prostitute is poverty, and the adulteress preys upon your very life. 27 Can a man embrace fire and his clothes not be burned? 28 Can a man walk on hot coals without scorching his feet? 29 So is he who sleeps with another man’s wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished. 30 Men do not despise the thief if he steals to satisfy his hunger. 31 Yet if caught, he must pay sevenfold; he must give up all the wealth of his house. 32 He who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself. 33 Wounds and dishonor will befall him, and his reproach will never be wiped away. 34 For jealousy enrages a husband, and he will show no mercy in the day of vengeance. 35 He will not be appeased by any ransom, or persuaded by lavish gifts.

‹ Chapter 5 Proverbs — All Chapters Chapter 7 ›

Study Notes — Proverbs 6

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

Proverbs 6 begins by warning against the dangers of suretyship, or becoming a guarantor for someone else's debt, as seen in Proverbs 6:1-5. It then describes the importance of diligence and hard work, using the example of the ant in Proverbs 6:6-11. The chapter also warns against the dangers of immorality, particularly adultery, in Proverbs 6:20-35. Additionally, it describes the characteristics of a worthless person, who is marked by laziness, dishonesty, and a lack of self-control, as seen in Proverbs 6:12-19. Throughout the chapter, Solomon emphasizes the importance of following wisdom and avoiding folly, in order to live a life that is pleasing to God and beneficial to ourselves and others.

Context for the Chapter

Proverbs 6 is part of the book of Proverbs, which is a collection of wisdom sayings and teachings attributed to King Solomon. The chapter is situated in the midst of a larger section that emphasizes the importance of wisdom, diligence, and self-control, as seen in Proverbs 5-7. The book of Proverbs is part of the larger biblical narrative, which emphasizes the importance of following God's commands and living a life of wisdom and righteousness.

Heart Application

As we read Proverbs 6, we are called to examine our own lives and see if we are following the principles of wisdom outlined in the chapter. We are to avoid laziness, dishonesty, and immorality, and to cultivate virtues like diligence, integrity, and self-control. By doing so, we can live a life that is pleasing to God and beneficial to ourselves and others.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Proverbs 6 teaches us about the importance of wisdom, diligence, and self-control. It warns against the dangers of immorality and laziness, and encourages us to cultivate virtues like integrity and hard work. As seen in Proverbs 6:6-11, we are to be like the ant, who is diligent and prepared for the future.

Voices from the Church

“The wisdom of God is seen in the way He governs the world, and the way He saves sinners through Jesus Christ.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and it is the foundation upon which all other virtues are built.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. The Dangers of Suretyship (Proverbs 6:1-5) — The chapter begins by warning against the dangers of becoming a guarantor for someone else's debt.
  2. The Importance of Diligence (Proverbs 6:6-11) — The example of the ant is used to illustrate the importance of hard work and preparation.
  3. The Characteristics of a Worthless Person (Proverbs 6:12-19) — The chapter describes the characteristics of a worthless person, who is marked by laziness, dishonesty, and a lack of self-control.
  4. The Dangers of Immorality (Proverbs 6:20-35) — The chapter warns against the dangers of immorality, particularly adultery, and encourages us to cultivate virtues like integrity and self-control.
  5. Conclusion (Proverbs 6:16-19) — The chapter concludes by highlighting the things that are an abomination to God, and encouraging us to avoid these sins and cultivate a life of wisdom and righteousness.

Core Doctrines

The Importance of Wisdom
Proverbs 6 emphasizes the importance of following wisdom and avoiding folly, as seen in Proverbs 6:6-11.
The Dangers of Sin
The chapter warns against the dangers of immorality, particularly adultery, as seen in Proverbs 6:20-35.
The Character of God
The chapter highlights the things that are an abomination to God, and encourages us to avoid these sins and cultivate a life of wisdom and righteousness, as seen in Proverbs 6:16-19.
The Importance of Self-Control
The chapter encourages us to cultivate virtues like self-control and integrity, as seen in Proverbs 6:12-19.

Lessons from Proverbs 6

  1. The Importance of Hard Work — The example of the ant in Proverbs 6:6-11 teaches us the importance of hard work and preparation.
  2. The Dangers of Immorality — The chapter warns against the dangers of immorality, particularly adultery, as seen in Proverbs 6:20-35.
  3. The Characteristics of a Worthless Person — The chapter describes the characteristics of a worthless person, who is marked by laziness, dishonesty, and a lack of self-control, as seen in Proverbs 6:12-19.
  4. The Importance of Self-Control — The chapter encourages us to cultivate virtues like self-control and integrity, as seen in Proverbs 6:12-19.
  5. The Importance of Wisdom — The chapter emphasizes the importance of following wisdom and avoiding folly, as seen in Proverbs 6:6-11.

Themes from Proverbs 6

  1. Wisdom and Folly — The chapter emphasizes the importance of following wisdom and avoiding folly, as seen in Proverbs 6:6-11.
  2. Diligence and Hard Work — The example of the ant in Proverbs 6:6-11 teaches us the importance of hard work and preparation.
  3. Immorality and Adultery — The chapter warns against the dangers of immorality, particularly adultery, as seen in Proverbs 6:20-35.
  4. Self-Control and Integrity — The chapter encourages us to cultivate virtues like self-control and integrity, as seen in Proverbs 6:12-19.
  5. The Character of God — The chapter highlights the things that are an abomination to God, and encourages us to avoid these sins and cultivate a life of wisdom and righteousness, as seen in Proverbs 6:16-19.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What are some ways that I can cultivate wisdom and avoid folly in my own life?
  2. How can I avoid the dangers of immorality and laziness, and cultivate virtues like integrity and hard work?
  3. What are some characteristics of a worthless person, and how can I avoid these traits in my own life?
  4. How can I apply the principles of wisdom outlined in Proverbs 6 to my own life and relationships?
  5. What are some ways that I can cultivate a life of wisdom and righteousness, and avoid the things that are an abomination to God?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. The Dangers of Suretyship (Proverbs 6:1-5)

Proverbs 6:1 The chapter begins by warning against the dangers of becoming a guarantor for someone else's debt.
Proverbs 6:2 The verse emphasizes the importance of being careful and wise in our financial dealings.

2. The Importance of Diligence (Proverbs 6:6-11)

Proverbs 6:6 The example of the ant is used to illustrate the importance of hard work and preparation.
Proverbs 6:7 The verse emphasizes the importance of being diligent and responsible in our work.

3. The Characteristics of a Worthless Person (Proverbs 6:12-19)

Proverbs 6:12 The chapter describes the characteristics of a worthless person, who is marked by laziness, dishonesty, and a lack of self-control.
Proverbs 6:13 The verse emphasizes the importance of being honest and trustworthy in our words and actions.

4. The Dangers of Immorality (Proverbs 6:20-35)

Proverbs 6:20 The chapter warns against the dangers of immorality, particularly adultery.
Proverbs 6:21 The verse emphasizes the importance of being faithful and loyal in our relationships.

5. Conclusion (Proverbs 6:16-19)

Proverbs 6:16 The chapter concludes by highlighting the things that are an abomination to God, and encouraging us to avoid these sins and cultivate a life of wisdom and righteousness.
Proverbs 6:17 The verse emphasizes the importance of being humble and repentant in our walk with God.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main theme of Proverbs 6?

The main theme of Proverbs 6 is the importance of wisdom, diligence, and self-control, as seen in Proverbs 6:6-11 and Proverbs 6:12-19.

What are some ways that I can avoid the dangers of immorality and laziness?

You can avoid these dangers by cultivating virtues like self-control, integrity, and hard work, as seen in Proverbs 6:12-19 and Proverbs 6:20-35.

What are some characteristics of a worthless person?

A worthless person is marked by laziness, dishonesty, and a lack of self-control, as seen in Proverbs 6:12-19.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 Proverbs 6:1 → Genesis 43:9 The concept of suretyship is also seen in Genesis 43:9, where Judah becomes a guarantor for his brother Benjamin.
2 Proverbs 6:6 → Matthew 25:1-13 The parable of the wise and foolish virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 also emphasizes the importance of being prepared and diligent.
3 Proverbs 6:12 → 1 Timothy 5:8 The concept of being a worthless person is also seen in 1 Timothy 5:8, where the apostle Paul warns against being idle and refusing to work.
4 Proverbs 6:16 → Leviticus 18:22 The things that are an abomination to God, as listed in Proverbs 6:16-19, are also seen in Leviticus 18:22, where the Lord warns against the sin of homosexuality.
5 Proverbs 6:20 → Hebrews 13:4 The importance of being faithful and loyal in our relationships is also emphasized in Hebrews 13:4, where the apostle warns against the sin of adultery.
6 Proverbs 6:21 → Ephesians 5:3 The concept of being pure and holy in our thoughts and actions is also seen in Ephesians 5:3, where the apostle Paul warns against the sin of immorality.
7 Proverbs 6:22 → Psalm 119:9 The importance of being guided by God's word is also emphasized in Psalm 119:9, where the psalmist asks for guidance and direction from the Lord.
8 Proverbs 6:23 → 2 Timothy 3:16-17 The concept of being instructed and guided by God's word is also seen in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, where the apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of Scripture in our lives.
9 Proverbs 6:24 → Proverbs 2:16 The warning against the seductress is also seen in Proverbs 2:16, where the wise man warns against the dangers of adultery.
10 Proverbs 6:25 → Job 31:1 The importance of being pure and holy in our thoughts and actions is also emphasized in Job 31:1, where Job makes a covenant with his eyes to avoid looking at a woman with lust.

Sermons on Proverbs 6

SermonDescription
Billy Graham Crusade 1957 by Billy Graham This sermon emphasizes the importance of examining and surrendering our hearts to God. It delves into the sinful, wicked, rebellious, and hardened nature of the human heart, highli
Voddie Baucham (Biblical Family) Biblical Manhood - Part 1 by Voddie Baucham In this sermon, the speaker addresses the topic of biblical manhood and what qualities a man must possess to reflect it. The first quality mentioned is a commitment to God-honoring
Paris Reidhead (So Great a Salvation) Temptation and Sin by Paris Reidhead In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about his journey of faith. He describes a moment of deep conviction and repentance after disobeying his parents. He then reflec
David Wilkerson The Hunter From Hell by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal story about a desperate teenage boy he encountered in Brooklyn. The boy's siblings, who were only three and four years old, were left
Keith Daniel The King's Highway by Keith Daniel In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of delighting in the law of the Lord and meditating on it day and night. He warns against seeking quick blessings from God wh
J. Vernon McGee (Genesis) Genesis 39:8-10 by J. Vernon McGee In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Joseph from the Bible. He highlights Joseph's commitment to serving God and maintaining a high moral standard, even in a land f
Paul Washer The Godly Family - Part 3 by Paul Washer In this sermon, the speaker addresses the topic of marriage, starting with courtship and moving on to various aspects of married life. He emphasizes the importance of parents in pr
David Wilkerson The Awful Sin of Pride by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of patience and waiting on God's timing. He warns against making impulsive and fleshly decisions that can lead to disaster. T
Tim Conway Freedom From Masterbation and Sensuality by Tim Conway This sermon emphasizes the need to flee from sin, particularly addressing the issue of justifying masturbation as not a sin. It highlights the importance of seeking biblical guidan
Zac Poonen Freedom From Denominationalism by Zac Poonen In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking God's truth and total freedom from anything that binds us. He encourages humility, servanthood, and having a father

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Proverbs 6

In his commentary on Proverbs 6, Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of wisdom, diligence, and self-control in our lives. He warns against the dangers of immorality and laziness, and encourages us to cultivate virtues like integrity and hard work. Henry also highlights the things that are an abomination to God, as listed in Proverbs 6:16-19, and encourages us to avoid these sins and cultivate a life of wisdom and righteousness. As we read this chapter, we are called to examine our own lives and see if we are following the principles of wisdom outlined in the chapter, and to make changes as necessary to live a life that is pleasing to God. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The Importance of Wisdom

Throughout the chapter, Solomon emphasizes the importance of following wisdom and avoiding folly. This is seen in Proverbs 6:6-11, where the ant is held up as an example of diligence and hard work.

The Dangers of Immorality

The chapter warns against the dangers of immorality, particularly adultery, as seen in Proverbs 6:20-35. This sin is seen as a threat to one's reputation, relationships, and ultimately, one's soul.

The Characteristics of a Worthless Person

The chapter describes the characteristics of a worthless person, who is marked by laziness, dishonesty, and a lack of self-control, as seen in Proverbs 6:12-19.

Everything we make is available for free because of a generous community of supporters.

Donate