As soon as I opened my Bible to Proverbs 7, I discovered that God is repeating Himself again…that means He’s raising a red flag, and those who have ears should listen. I am going to write most of this proverb here, and then going to write what my Commentary says…
“While I was at the window of my house, looking through the curtain, I saw some naïve young men, and one in particular who lacked common sense. He was crossing the street near the house of an immoral woman, strolling down the path by her house. It was at twilight, in the evening, as darkness fell.” Proverbs 7: 6-9
Although this advice is directed toward young men, young women should heed it as well. The person who has no purpose in life is naïve. Without aim or direction, an empty life is unstable, vulnerable to many temptations. Even though the young man in this passage doesn’t know where he is going, the immoral woman knows where she wants him.
“The woman approached him seductively dressed and sly of heart. She was the brash, rebellious type, never content to stay at home. She is often in the streets and markets, soliciting at every corner. She threw her arms around him and kissed him, and with a brazen look she said, “I’ve just made my peace offerings and fulfilled my vows. You’re the one I was looking for! I came out to find you, and here you are! My bed is spread with beautiful blankets, with colored sheets of Egyptian linen. I’ve perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon. Come, let’s drink our fill of love until morning. Let’s enjoy each other’s caresses, for my husband is not home. He’s away on a long trip. He has taken a wallet full of money with him and won’t return until later this month.
So she seduced him with her pretty speech and enticed him with her flattery. He followed her at once, like an ox going to the slaughter. He was like a stag caught in a trap, awaiting the arrow that would pierce its heart. He was like a bird flying into a snare, little knowing it would cost him his life.” Proverbs 7: 10-23
Notice her strategies: She is dressed to allure men; her approach is bold; she invites him over to her place; she cunningly answers his every objection; she persuades him with smooth talk; she traps him. To combat temptation, make sure your life is full of God’s Word and wisdom. Recognize the strategies of temptation, and run away from them-fast.
“So listen to me, my sons, and pay attention to my words. Don’t let your hearts stray away toward her. Don’t wander down her wayward path. For she has been the ruin of many; many men have been her victims. Her house is the road to the grave. Her bedroom is the den of death.” Proverbs 7: 24-27
There are definite steps you can take to guard your mind. Don’t read books, look at pictures, or encourage fantasies that stimulate the wrong desires. Keep away from any settings or friends that tempt you to sin. Don’t only think of the moment—focus on the future. Today’s thrill may lead to tomorrow’s sin.