The last half of this chapter addresses a rather common subject in Proverbs — immorality (:20-35). Presumably it was mentioned frequently because it was a problem for these ancient Israelite men!
While Solomon mentions “a prostitute” (:26), the focus is on “another man’s wife” (:24, 26, 29). The term “adultery” is used in our verses (:32).
Verse 32 says that “a man who commits adultery lacks judgment” (literally “lacks heart”). He’s missing something on the inside and isn’t making good judgments. Inappropriate thinking leads to inappropriate choices and actions.
And the guy who follows such thinking, choices and actions “destroys himself.” Such bad decisions can ruin us and we’ll have no one to blame but ourselves.
This proverb’s pretty clear — we can’t blame our spouses, the other person or their spouses — it’s on us! The resulting devastation includes “blows/wounds and disgrace…shame.”
The “wounds” and “disgrace” (:33) may come from his wife or her husband! The “shame” from others — but, probably, mostly from himself! And we haven’t even mentioned God!
But, as I contemplate these verses and think about life, I still see a glimmer of hope! Since this is all self-inflicted, I can also do something about it.
Like the Serenity Prayer says, I can ask God to grant me “the courage to change the things I can!” See: https://helpingupmission.org/serenity-prayer.
God will give me some “heart/judgment” and, while my “shame will never be completely wiped away,” I can move on with my life. I can make amends, offer important guidance to others and still make a difference…one day at a time!