The Bible Says
Proverbs 23:17-21 Meaning

King Solomon, who reigned in Israel as the son of King David, counsels God’s people not to be jealous of those who ignore God’s ways. He begins Proverbs 23:17-21 by saying, Do not let your heart envy sinners, But live in the fear of the LORD always (v. 17). That call to reject envy points us toward embracing a deep reverence for God, which the Scriptures often refer to as the fear of the LORD (Acts 9:31). When we center our hearts on holiness rather than envying worldly success, we align ourselves with God’s enduring wisdom.

Then Solomon declares, Surely there is a future, And your hope will not be cut off (v. 18). This promise emphasizes that living in reverence for God is never in vain. Even when present circumstances seem difficult, there is a divinely ordained future in store for those who anchor themselves in faithful trust. This future includes the assurance that God sees and rewards the right motivations of our hearts, reminding us that our labors and faith will lead to a lasting hope that extends beyond earthly measures of prosperity.

On a more personal level, the author pleads, Listen, my son, and be wise, And direct your heart in the way (v. 19). As a father figure, Solomon urges his audience to accept wisdom’s guidance and deliberately set their hearts on righteous paths. This involves an intentional choice each day, actively rejecting foolishness while embracing a mind—set that yields godly insight. Through such effort, believers can grow in discernment and remain steadfast in God’s ways.

Next, he warns, Do not be with heavy drinkers of wine, Or with gluttonous eaters of meat (v. 20) indicating that overindulgence in food or drink dangerously distracts us from the pursuit of wisdom. By associating with those trapped in such excesses, our commitments to self-control and moral discipline erode. This admonition underscores the importance of standing apart from habits that dull our understanding and hamper spiritual growth.

Finally, Solomon concludes with a vivid rationale: For the heavy drinker and the glutton will come to poverty, And drowsiness will clothe one with rags (v. 21). Here, the teaching warns that indulgence saps the body and soul of vitality. Not only does it risk financial ruin and physical decline, but it also leads to a complacency that undermines the active pursuit of God’s wisdom. The consequence of such a life is the opposite of the hopeful future promised to those who hold fast to the fear of the Lord.