Focus before you read. . .
Today’s proverb focuses on a father’s advice to his son to keep away from the adulteress woman. Both the illustration and the message itself, however, can be applied to any temptation. As you read today, try to apply the lessons of this proverb to whatever temptation you are currently facing.
Questions to ask as you read. . .
- The father instructs his son to “store up” his commands and “guard” his teachings. What do these two descriptions suggest about the purpose of instruction?
- What strategies does the adulteress use? How do these strategies relate to other types of temptation?
- What are the consequences of the young man’s sin? What did he fail to realize?
Application to make after you read. . .
Today’s proverb provides straightforward counsel on avoiding the snares of not only the adulteress woman, but temptation in general. Here are at least three key lessons to consider:
- “Store up” the lessons you have been taught before you face temptation. As Paul writes in Ephesians 6, “Put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand.” Also, be sure to “guard” the Biblical teachings you have received from the corrupting influence of the world that may call that advice into question.
- Don’t look for trouble or invite temptation. The young man’s first mistake is to walk “down the street near her corner.”
- Visualize the long-term consequences of your sin. The young man was led astray, “little knowing it will cost him his life.”
Prayer
Father, this is my prayer:
“I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you. (Psalm 119:10-11)
