Proverbs 31:1-1-9
Q.1. To what vow was King Lemuel’s mother referring? What two family traditions did the king try to pass on to his son? For what reason? – (Prov.31:1-5)
What oracle did King Lemuel’s mother pass on to her son? She was referring to her wedding vows, made to her husband in the presence of God (Prov.31:2). What was her burden? She had observed that alcohol often contributed to marital infidelity. It was this same burden that the king wished to pass on to his son (Prov.31:1-2). Two threats to the maintenance of marriage vows are stated – Do not give your strength to women, or your ways to that which destroys kings (Prov.31:3). What is it that destroys kings? – It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to desire strong drink (Prov.31:4). That is why Paul warned the Ephesian church – 17 So then do not be foolish but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit (Eph.5:17-18). Lemuel had observed about strong drink – For they will drink and forget what is decreed, and pervert the rights of all the afflicted (Prov.31:5). That is not a way for kings or rulers to bless the people under their leadership.
Q.2. Why is strong drink to be avoided? What makes it more appropriate to give to sufferers? What is the role of a ruler of people? – (Prov.31:5-9)
The influence of strong drink will never increase our memory or wisdom. It makes us vulnerable to the influence of our drink associates and makes us less concerned about the rights of others (Prov.31:5). Today, many drugs are available to reduce the pain of the terminally ill, and those who are suffering. Lemuel knew that strong drink could mask the pain for such as these (Prov.31:6-7). But kings and rulers should – 8 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all the unfortunate. 9 Open your mouth, judge righteously, and defend the rights of the afflicted and needy (Prov.31:8-9). For that reason Lemuel warned his son about the abuse of strong drink.