Dangerous Promises

Expository Sermon on Proverbs 6 (NKJV)

Title: The Path of Wisdom and the Pitfalls of Folly

Text: Proverbs 6:1-35

Introduction:

Proverbs 6 is a warning passage filled with divine wisdom, offering practical instruction for life. Solomon warns against financial entanglements, laziness, and immorality, emphasizing that wise living honors God and preserves our well-being. Today, we will explore three key teachings from this chapter:

The Dangers of Reckless Financial Agreements (vv. 1-5)

The Tragedy of Laziness (vv. 6-11)

The Consequences of Wickedness and Immorality (vv. 12-35)

I. The Dangers of Reckless Financial Agreements (vv. 1-5)

“Deliver yourself like a gazelle”

Solomon warns about becoming "surety" (co-signing or guaranteeing another’s debt).

The Bible consistently warns against foolish financial decisions that could lead to ruin (Proverbs 22:7).

The imagery of a gazelle escaping from a hunter emphasizes urgency—financial irresponsibility can entrap us.

Paul reinforces this wisdom in Romans 13:8: “Owe no one anything except to love one another.”

Illustration: Imagine someone co-signing a loan for a friend who later defaults. The burden falls on the signer, demonstrating the financial and emotional strain Solomon warns against.

II. The Tragedy of Laziness (vv. 6-11)

“Go to the ant, you sluggard!”

Solomon presents the ant as a model of diligence and preparation.

The lazy person procrastinates and avoids responsibility, leading to poverty and hardship.

Proverbs 13:4: “The soul of a lazy man desires and has nothing, but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich.”

Hard work is a biblical principle; even Paul rebukes idleness in 2 Thessalonians 3:10: “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.”

Illustration: A man ignores daily responsibilities, assuming he has time to fix things later, but suddenly, his debts pile up, and opportunities pass him by.

III. The Consequences of Wickedness and Immorality (vv. 12-35)

“Can a man take fire to his bosom and not be burned?” (v. 27)

Solomon warns against deceitful, divisive, and immoral behavior.

The seven things the Lord hates (vv. 16-19) show the depth of God’s detestation of wickedness.

Adultery is given particular attention (vv. 20-35), illustrating its devastating consequences.

1 Corinthians 6:18: “Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body.”

Illustration: A man caught in an affair loses his family, reputation, and peace, showing the destructive power of sin.

Applications:

Be Wise with Financial Commitments (vv. 1-5)

Think before committing financially. Seek godly counsel before entering agreements that could entangle you.

2. Cultivate a Strong Work Ethic (vv. 6-11)

Emulate the diligence of the ant. Faithful work brings stability and honors God.

3. Flee from Sin and Guard Your Heart (vv. 12-35)

Avoid deception, division, and immorality. Sin has lasting consequences, but wisdom leads to life.

Conclusion:

Proverbs 6 is a sobering call to wisdom. Whether in financial matters, our work ethic, or moral choices, God desires for us to walk in righteousness. Let us heed His warnings and pursue a life that honors Him.

Invitation: Are there areas in your life where you have fallen into financial, spiritual, or moral danger? Repent and seek God’s wisdom today.