Proverbs 7:6-23
Today we get a vivid portrayal of the progression of temptation, specifically toward adultery, but metaphorically toward sin in general. We see a young man foolishly passing along the street … at the time of night and darkness. (vv. 8-9) We see that the woman meets him, dressed as a prostitute, wily of heart. (v. 10) She flirts with him and describes a pleasant scenario, assuring him they won’t get caught. (Pr. 7:13-20) And finally:
With much seductive speech she persuades him;
Proverbs 7:21-23
with her smooth talk she compels him.
All at once he follows her,
as an ox goes to the slaughter,
or as a stag is caught fast
till an arrow pierces its liver;
as a bird rushes into a snare;
he does not know that it will cost him his life.
What a sad and tragic end, yet it is all predictable. I am struck by the phrase “all at once” in verse 22. Up until that point there is at least some chance of the man’s escaping the actual sin. But it is only a small chance. The reality is that his battle is lost much earlier when he is “just” passing along the street near her corner. Although he would not want to admit it, and although he is likely to point his finger at the woman and her seductions, with claims of naïveté and “surprise”, he knows deep down what he is about at the onset. He is indeed lacking sense.
What about us? We, of course, live in the same world (which hasn’t really changed), so the description here is not at all hard to imagine. If there is any difference at all, it is just that today the young man (or woman) need not leave his own house and head to the wrong side of town for the liaison. Internet pornography is freely available with just a few clicks. Or there is cable TV. HBO’s highly acclaimed and wildly popular Game of Thrones, is filled with sex and nudity. And that is just one quick example; there are plenty more. True, porn may not be quite on the level of an all out affair, but it is adultery just the same. (See Mt. 5:27-28.) If we do not keep guard, it is dreadfully easy to fall into its grip. I know, for I have all too often been that man lacking sense.
Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith. (I Peter 5:8-9a)
Yesterday I asked what practical steps you are taking to implement the admonitions to treasure wisdom. I’d very much like to hear your answers.
I, too, would like to hear other responses, although I did, yesterday, truly appreciate Bruce’s 12-step approach. I remember a response from my childhood Catholic Catechism: …”to avoid the near occasions of sin.” If you sense sin, get away! Easier said than done…
I’m somewhat behind in Proverbs but as we raised our four children, Proverbs was read at dinner nightly. It’s a good book to raise kids on. We used to ask which was one’s favorite? Kept the children listening!