Proverbs 5 is a dad talking to his son about sex. That might feel awkward, but it’s a really important talk. God made sex, and he made it good. He also gave us boundaries to protect us.

Dads: This chapter talks about sexual temptation. Read it ahead of time and use your judgment for younger sons.

Dads, Have the Talk

Proverbs 5:1-2 My son, pay attention to my wisdom, turn your ear to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge.

Solomon didn’t leave his son to figure this out from friends or the internet. He talked about it plainly. Dads, if we don’t talk with our sons about sex, the world will be glad to do it for us.

God’s Design Is Good

Proverbs 5:18 May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.

God created sex as a gift for a husband and wife in marriage. It’s not dirty or shameful. It’s something special that’s worth waiting for and protecting.

God Sees Everything

Proverbs 5:21 For your ways are in full view of the LORD, and he examines all your paths.

Some people think they can hide what they do or what they look at. But God sees all of it. The good news is that God also gives us strength to stay pure (Psalm 119:9).

The Takeaway

God made sex good, and he made it for marriage. Wise young men listen to their dads, stay away from temptation, and live as if God is watching, because he is.

Discuss and Dive Deeper

Talk about it:

  1. Fathers and sons, read Proverbs 5 together, taking turns by section.
  2. To the older men and dads: Did your dad talk to you about sex? How did it go?
  3. To the younger men and sons: what are some of the things your friends (or the culture) have to say about sex? Make a list.
  4. What’s the main message in Proverbs 5 on the topic of sex and purity? Is the message still relevant today?
  5. Sons, what’s one question about this topic you’d feel comfortable asking your dad?
  6. What other verses or insights jumped out to you from this chapter?
  7. Close your time together in prayer.

See also:

Proverbs for Men and Boys (Men’s Series)