Proverbs 27:8

The book of Proverbs gives us insights into so many different areas of life. The book gives us instruction on how to live our lives for God. Here is a proverb that gives us insight about a man who wanders from his home:

Proverbs 27:8 (ESV)

Like a bird that strays from its nest

is a man who strays from his home.

 This proverb gives us insight on our own vulnerability. We have to understand the context surrounding the days in which this proverb was written. In Solomon’s day that aspect of living together in a large city was the only true way to be safe. The city provided protection and provisions. The person who wandered from the city lacked these things. Solomon’s wisdom here is that like a bird that leaves the nest we open ourselves to being vulnerable once we leave the security of our home. The key word here is the word “strays.” It means to flee or abandon. This verse is not talking about the person who leaves the security of home to accomplish a purpose and returns to safety. Solomon is referring to a person who flies from tree to tree and exposes himself to the hunter of the world. He/she “strays” from home, not looking to return. Avoid being vulnerable to the world and return to the safety and love of the home.  Solomon might also be referring to those who stray from God’s wisdom (understanding the context of the book of Proverbs).  Remember in chapter 8 we read that Wisdom has set her banquet table for us.   When we stray from that table we should not be surprised if we run into problems.   Solomon also stated that there is “safety” in a multitude of counselors (Proverbs 11:14).   So, our “nest” might not be our home but the seat of God’s wise counsel.  We are in a dangerous place when we stray from God’s wisdom.