Chapter
Verse

Proverbs 28:7

ESV The one who keeps the law is a son with understanding, but a companion of gluttons shames his father.
NIV A discerning son heeds instruction, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.
NASB He who keeps the Law is a discerning son, But he who is a companion of gluttons humiliates his father.
CSB A discerning son keeps the law, but a companion of gluttons humiliates his father.
NLT Young people who obey the law are wise; those with wild friends bring shame to their parents.
KJV Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father.

What does Proverbs 28:7 mean?

Other proverbs note the importance of following God's wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 8:33–36). That includes caution about who we allow to influence our lives (Proverbs 13:20). Close association with ungodly people risks trouble (Proverbs 22:24–25) and brings one's reputation into question (Proverbs 3:1–4; 20:19; 24:21). This also leads observers to question the integrity of one's family (Proverbs 29:15). When a son—or student—applies godliness, it reflects well on their parents—or teacher (Proverbs 23:22–25; 27:11).

"Gluttons," in this context, means those who indulge in any desire beyond reasonable limits. In the modern world, this term typically refers to food. However, the general principle can apply to hobbies, vices, or addictions as well. Spending time with people lacking self-control can lead to temptation, or being caught up in someone else's consequences The apostle Paul warned, "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company ruins good morals.'" (1 Corinthians 15:33). He described false teachers as enemies of the cross of Christ (Philippians 3:18), whose "end is destruction" and "their god is their belly" (Philippians 3:19). It is exemplary to feast on God's Word (Psalm 119:103) but sinful to overindulge in food or pleasure.
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