Introductory Thoughts
The Bible says that pleasure-seeking breeds poverty. The more men require amusement and seek pleasure, the more they are willing to carelessly spend to have both. Proverbs 21:17 says, “He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man.” Proverbs 29:3 speaks of the desire for evil pleasure when it says, “he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance.” The prodigal son, who left home with his inheritance, offers one of the most well-known cases. The Bible says of him that he “wasted his substance with riotous living” (Luke 15:13). All pleasure is not sinful, but all pleasure can become costly and sinful when not properly balanced with the right level of wisdom and discretion. There are other pleasures which are directly sinful and should be completely avoided.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Good moms and dads will never allow their children all the pleasures they desire. Too much money spent on toys, candy, amusements, eating out, etc., may not leave enough for the actual needs: food, clothing, monthly bills, emergencies. Learn to control your desires for pleasures and be content when you are young.
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(For everyone): What does the Bible say about sin and pleasures in Hebrews 11:25? How long do the pleasures of sin last? What happens when pleasure runs out?
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What kind of things might be considered pleasure, but not necessarily sinful pleasure? How can those things, though not directly sinful, become sinful?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to continue to protect you from violence.
- Ask God for wisdom to know your heart toward pleasure.
Song
I AM RESOLVED
