Proverbs 7:6-21

Spend time in prayer and silence with God asking Him to meet with you and speak to you.

Bible Reading

At the window of my house I looked out through the lattice. I saw among the simple, I noticed among the young men, a youth who lacked judgment. He was going down to the street near her corner, walking along in the direction of her house at twilight, as the day was fading, as the dark of night set in. Then out came a woman to meet him, dressed like a prostitute and with crafty intent. (She is loud and defiant, her feet never stay home; now in the street, now in the squares, at every corner she lurks.) She took hold of him and kissed him and with a brazen face she said: “I have fellowship offerings at home; today I fulfilled my vows. So I came out to meet you; I looked for you and have found you! I have covered my bed with colored linens from Egypt. I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes and cinnamon. Come let’s drink deep of love till morning; let’s enjoy ourselves with love! My husband is not at home; he has gone on a long journey. He took his purse full of money and will not be home till full moon.” With persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him with her smooth talk.

– Proverbs 7:6-21

Devotion

Solomon describes this young man as one who lacks judgment. Then he goes on to describe the attributes of the temptress: appealing, deceiving, loud, defiant, on the prowl, lurking, brazen, seductive, alluring, persuasive, misleading, and smooth. Temptation is very subtle and attractive but fails to mention the ugly consequences of sin. It paints a false portrait in order draw its victim in and ensnare them in its trap. Pastor Shirock recently said, “Sin always takes you farther than you want to go, keeps you longer than you want to stay, and costs you more than you want to pay.” We must recognize the nature of temptation if we are to be victorious over it. We must also understand that God enables us to say “no” to temptation. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are equipped to fight this spiritual battle.

The Big Question

What temptation are you facing today? Do you lack judgment like the young man or are you able to discern the true nature of temptation? What are the full consequences of succumbing to this temptation? Are you protected by the whole armor of guard so that you can fight against the Devil’s schemes? (See Ephesians 6:10-18)

Conclude your time in prayer and silence reflecting on what you have learned.