In this chapter, Solomon deals with six different topics. He must have had reasons for all of these things being on his mind at the same time. Maybe during his sleep one night God caused him to remember these things from his youth.
First, Solomon addressed something many young people and even older people may fall for. Con men have been around for a long time. Here a young man has recently met someone who befriends him. After a few days or weeks, they can easily sit down and talk without hesitation. Then the new friend may have a great investment opportunity or a sob story; either way, he needs some money or he needs someone to co-sign a note. Solomon isn’t talking about family members or long-time friends the young man has known. Solomon tried to tell him to swallow his pride and try to get out of the situation before he has to pay the debt himself.
His second topic deals with lack of ambition; in verse 6, he even calls him a “lazy fellow”. It doesn’t matter if you are born in luxury or poverty, some people are naturally lazy. Solomon uses the industrious ant to teach a lesson. The ant goes out every day to gather food for every season. It doesn’t matter if it is warm, hot, cool or cold, the ant works to provide provisions. After sin in the Garden of Eden, God took away man’s daily provisions and told Adam he would have to work hard to provide housing and food. (Verses 6-11).
The third thing God placed on Solomon’s mind was the habits of wicked people. His qualities include being a constant liar, thinking up new schemes to swindle people, and being a trouble maker. (Verses 12-15).
Number four on Solomon’s list are also recorded in other places in Scripture. They are the seven things God says He hates. Notice it does not say God hates these people; it says God hates these activities and attitudes because all human beings are prone to something in the list. (Verses 16-19).
Fifth, Solomon reminds young men to listen to their godly parents and obey them. He said, “For their advice is a beam of light directed into the dark corners of your mind to warn you of danger and to give you a good life.” (Verses 20-24).
Finally, in verses 25-35, Solomon again gives a warning about enjoying the pleasurers of prostitutes and married women. He compares a man who commits adultery with another man’s wife and a man who is caught stealing. The thief has a better chance of surviving.