“and put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony.”
Kind of harsh right. I mean knife to your throat? Solomon is cautioning those who have a weakness that could cause them to lose control in the presence of someone who could take offense and maybe even have them punished. Jesus made a similar reference telling us in Matthew that it is better to gouge out your eye or cut off your hand if they cause you to sin. What in the world is going on here? Who is going to do any of these things. Both Solomon and Jesus are not pushing suicide or self mutilation. Solomon is letting us know the seriousness of inappropriate behavior and it’s consequences in certain situations. Jesus is making the seriousness of sin very clear. Solomon is also making a clear statement on the dangers of gluttony. Any excess can put your reputation and opportunity for influence at risk. The bottom line is: know your weakness and avoid situations where you may stumble. Also find ways to strengthen your self restraint. I have friends who battled alcoholism who now need to avoid bars. Wise. I don’t know your weaknesses in thought and behavior but you do. Take them seriously. Solomon and Jesus do. Today avoid walking into situations that can cause you to stumble and sacrifice your kingdom witness. #BeTheEdge
“It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.” Jesus