Day 184

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Be Wary! Be Wise!

Scripture

July 2—Proverbs 5-9: Companions of Wisdom

Observation

Throughout the book of Proverbs, you will find the repeated exhortation to attentiveness. It is not enough merely to give casual attention to the words of wisdom. Hearing without heeding is folly. Nowhere is the more crucial than in the moral choices of life. The wise person avoids the tantalizing invitations of adultery and moral looseness, knowing the awesome price tag for such temporary pleasures. Fidelity, not immorality, is the path of true happiness for the man who will "replace in the wife of his youth" (5:18).

Application

If you could take one lesson you learned from your father or grandfather and pass it on to your children or grandchildren, what would it be?

Solomon's childhood must have been a trying time. Think of the trails and tremors that rocked the palace during those turbulent years: Tamar's defilement, David's abdication, Absalom's shameful conduct and equally shameful death (2 Samuel 13-18). Do you suppose Solomon was pondering the sins of his parents as he wrote these words of warning about sin's enticements to his son?

The path that leads to immorality is slippery one indeed. Flattening lips deceitful invitations, alluring pleasures—they all lead to one inescapable end: destruction. Solomon's wise advice to his son is the same advice he received from his father David: To avoid the slippery path, don't watch your feet, watch your heart (6:20-29); Psalm 119:9, 11), for that is where sin's temptations begin.

As you read Solomon's "Words for a Son to Live By," use the following outline: immorality—Its Pain (6:20-29), Its Price (6:30-35), and It Subtle Plan (7:1-27). Then huddle with your family (or a Christian friend) to discuss how Solomon's counsel can guide your conduct around member of the opposite sex.

Prayer

O Lord we learnt from today's reading of your Word that temptation always promises more than it produces but we know that your Word stand every test for the best way to live our life. We shall mediate on your Word daily and the wisdom it provides. We need your Word in order for us to bear good fruit so that the world can see to whom we belong. Guide us in our daily walk to a more holy life. In Jesus' name. Amen!

Live a Holy Life!


© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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