Definition: For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Proverbs 4:17 – it’s a really important verse about protecting yourself and your life. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse warns us against living a life filled with negativity, harmful things, and violence. It suggests that focusing on those things will ultimately hurt you. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “They eat the bread of wickedness…” – “Bread” here represents something good, positive, and valuable. “Wickedness” means evil, bad thoughts, harmful actions, or negative emotions. It's essentially anything that goes against God’s will. “…and drink the wine of violence.” – "Wine" symbolizes pleasure, enjoyment, and celebration. But this "wine" is made with violence – anger, hatred, conflict, and fighting. It’s a destructive force. So, what does it mean in practical terms? Basically, Proverbs 4:17 is saying that living a life filled with negativity, harmful actions, and conflict will ultimately lead to unhappiness and trouble. It's encouraging us to seek things that are good, peaceful, and beneficial – like wisdom, righteousness, and friendship. Why is this important? Proverbs often emphasizes the importance of: Protecting yourself: Taking care of your heart and mind is crucial. Avoiding negativity: Focusing on things that bring you down instead of up. Seeking good: Choosing to live a life guided by God's will and principles. In short, it’s a call to prioritize positive choices and avoid paths that lead to suffering. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Give some examples of how to avoid these things in your life?