We have noted in prior devotionals from Proverbs 5 that this chapter contains some of Solomon’s strongest and most direct warnings regarding immorality (Proverbs 5:3-13). Though stated 3,000 years ago, Solomon’s warnings are as relevant in our day as they were when he counseled his son that the path of immorality leads to destruction!
Many churches are haunted by the moral failures of their leadership and membership. Far too many congregations can give testimony to the veracity of Solomon’s statement in Proverbs 5:14– there is gross evil within.
Proverbs 5:14 – “I was almost [a little; some; few] in all evil [sin; wickedness; misery; affliction] in the midst [among; within] of the congregation [assembly] and assembly [crowd; multitude].”
My friend, I do not need to remind you that gross immorality is only a few mouse clicks away for anyone who owns a smart phone, tablet or computer. The sin you feel is private and affects no one will prove to be a gateway to all manner of ungodliness, moral failure and its consequences.
Solomon warned: Private sins will eventually be exposed “in the midst of the congregation and assembly” and you will bemoan the day you foolishly departed from God and your sacred covenant with your spouse.
As I write this devotional my thoughts reflect on too many who were my brothers and fellow servants in Christ, but came to ruin. We enjoyed fun times and the sweet fellowship of couples that shared a love for singing in the choir, working with teens and the joy of fellowshipping together. My heart breaks when I realize the journey of many from church, though excused at the time by various defenses, was to avoid the reality of confessing their sin “in the midst of the congregation and assembly”. Sadly, their flight from accountability took their lives, marriage and family down a path of self-destruction.
Is there hope for someone on the slippery slope of moral depravity? Absolutely, but only if they are willing to accept moral responsibility for their failure; confess their sin to God and seek forgiveness and restoration with those against whom they have sinned [spouse, children, parents and fellow believers].
Matthew 5:23-24 – “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.”
Sadly, it is my experience that most will go to their graves bearing the guilt and burden of sins they were too proud to confess “in the midst of the congregation and assembly”.
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