Proverbs 23

“Do not eat the bread of a selfish man, or desire his delicacies … “(v6).  The proverbs also warn us that the “delicacies” - expensive treats - of a ruler are “deceptive food” (v1).  The picture in both verses is that of a person thoughtlessly enjoying a meal, lost in temporary pleasure, unaware that his host is laying a trap for him.  However attractive, the proverbs say no short-term pleasure is worth losing our freedom or our future. 

“Live in the fear of the Lord always.  Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off” (v17-18).