Day 1

Proverbs 5

For a man’s ways are before the eyes of the Lord, and he ponders all his paths. Proverbs 5:21

1. Describe the forbidden woman. What is her destination?
2. What specific instruction is given in verse 8 regarding the forbidden woman? How does this instruct us regarding our own temptations?
3. Recall the cultural significance of foreign women and God’s instruction to Israel on this topic (see Exodus 34:11-16 for an example). What danger, besides sexual immorality, does the forbidden woman present? How do Solomon’s warnings about her apply today?
4. Verses 15-20 shift to where the reader should focus his passions. Compare her to the forbidden woman. Where does each path lead

Day 2

Proverbs 6

Can a man carry fire next to his chest and his clothes not be burned? Or can one walk on hot coals and his feet not be scorched? Proverbs 6:27-28

1. What does it mean to “put up security for your neighbor” or to “give pledge to a stranger” (vv 1-2)? Why do you think Solomon warns against doing so in verses 1-5?
2. What is enticing about the life of a sluggard? What is the difference between needed rest and laziness.
3. List the things the Lord hates (vv 16-19). How does the world twist these verses?
4. What is the immediate reward of adultery? What are the long-term consequences? How does the desire of the adultress compare with that of a married woman?
5. Reread verses 27-28. Have you ever approached temptation as if you can come close without actually sinning? What was the result?

Day 3

Proverbs 7

Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call insight your intimate friend, to keep you from the forbidden woman, from the adultress with her smooth words. Proverbs 7:4-5

1. Why is it significant that Wisdom is continually referred to as a woman?
2. In the narrative of the seductress and the simpleton, what is the man’s first wrong move?
3. Describe the character of the seductress in verses 11-20. How does she also represent more broad sin and temptation?
4. Pause and reflect on the life of the writer, Solomon. Despite his wisdom, Solomon turned from God as a direct result of his foreign wives. With his story in mind, what is the significance of his heavy emphasis on warning against the forbidden woman? Why is the message important even for the reader who feels miles away from the temptation of adultery?

Day 4

Proverbs 8

For whoever finds [Wisdom] finds life and obtains favor from the Lord. Proverbs 8:35

1. What is significant about the description of Wisdom as a woman calling?
2. According to verse 13, what is the fear of the Lord, and what directly opposes it?
3. Verses 22-26 discuss Wisdom’s existence before creation, and verses 27-31 note that she participated in creation. The word “possessed” in verse 22 has connotations of being begotten or fathered. What is the significance of Wisdom’s history?
4. What are some things Wisdom promises to those who heed her?
5. How does this chapter encourage you to side with Wisdom, and how can you ensure that you are on her side?

Day 5

Proverbs 9

If you are wise, you are wise for yourself; if you scoff, you alone will bear it. Proverbs 9:12

1. Compare the invitations of Wisdom and Folly.
2. Who are they calling to? Why?
3. What does each invitation offer?
4. What is the message of the interlude (vv 7-12) between Wisdom and Folly’s respective invitations?
5. According to verse 12, who reaps the consequences of wisdom and scoffing? (See also Galatians 6:7.)
6. How do you see the principle of verses 7-8 at work in the world, whether in your personal experience or from a distance? When receiving reproof, which side do you see yourself on?