Proverbs 1:15

My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path:

Proverbs 1:15 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of a father’s urgent warning to his son in the opening chapter of Proverbs. The preceding verses describe sinners who entice others with promises of gain and companionship (Proverbs 1:10-14). Here, the father stops the son before he starts, telling him not to join their way or even set foot on their path.

Meaning

The command is twofold. First, “walk not thou in the way with them” means do not adopt their manner of life or join their company. Second, “refrain thy foot from their path” means do not even try that road, because the experiment is dangerous. The word “refrain” shows that avoiding evil requires deliberate, conscious effort. The father speaks as “my son,” showing loving protection, not mere prohibition. He sees the danger that the young person may not yet perceive.

Biblical connections

The language of “way” and “path” runs through Proverbs as a picture of one’s moral direction. The path of the wicked leads to ruin, as the following verses show (Proverbs 1:16-19). Wisdom calls out in the streets, urging people to choose her way instead. This verse applies that choice practically: refuse the company of evildoers and avoid their road entirely.

Application

Choosing companions wisely is a matter of personal responsibility. The people we walk with shape our thoughts, actions, and character. This verse teaches us to be discerning and to resist peer pressure. It also warns against flirting with sin, testing how close we can get without falling. The wise response is decisive, early avoidance, not hesitation.

Reflection

Godly guidance includes clear warnings about danger. Parents and mentors can follow this model by lovingly protecting those under their care. The verse does not promise that the righteous path is easy, but it implies that the wicked path is destructive. By heeding this wisdom, we can walk in the path of righteousness and avoid the pitfalls that come from associating with those who do not share our values.