Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evildoers. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way. For they cannot rest until they do evil; they are robbed of sleep till they make someone stumble. They eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of violence. The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day. But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.

This is such an important portion of Proverbs because it details out the best way to avoid falling into sin — avoid the way of evildoers. Many people will put themselves right up alongside sinful places, hanging out with godless people who are engaged in activities that are wrong. They say, “Well I don’t participate in these activities.” And all the while, they are slowly allowing their righteous standard to erode away.

Then, this proverb contrasts the way of the wicked and the path of righteousness. The righteous path is like the dawning sun, brilliant and shining for all to see in the daylight. The way of the wicked is deep darkness. It lures people in by being deceptive and not showing them the full extent of the path which leads to destruction.

The wicked have little understanding and wisdom, and their foresight is limited in life. Instead of a pleasure driven, “live for the moment”-type of life, this proverb encourages us to guard our heart, which is the center of our soul, and the wellspring of life.

Lord, thank you for your truth here. Thank you for encouraging me to stay true to your Word. Help me to be a bright light instead of deep darkness. Help me to reflect you, instead of seeking earthly pleasures.