Scripture reading – Proverbs 5; Proverbs 6
Our devotional series is continuing in the book of Proverbs, and this is the first of two devotionals for today. The majority of Proverbs 5 considers an oft repeated theme of Solomon’s proverbs– the tragic consequences of sexual immorality. This devotional will focus on Proverbs 5:3-5, and Solomon’s graphic illustration of the tragic and bitter consequences of sexual depravity. [Words and phrases in brackets are the amplifications and applications of the author.]
Proverbs 5:3-5 – “For the lips [language; speech; i.e., conversation] of a strange woman [adulterous; profane; immoral] drop [drip] as an honeycomb [are sweet as honey], and her mouth is smoother than oil [flattering; i.e., she knows how to stoke a man’s ego]:
4 But her end [the journey’s end of the adulterous woman] is bitter as wormwood [poisonous; cursed], sharp as a twoedged sword.
5 Her feet [journey; path she leads a man] go down to death; her steps take hold on hell [the way of an adulteress is the path to hell].”
Every man would do well to hear and heed Solomon’s admonitions to his son! The king warned his son that a “strange woman” will beguile a man until the hideous bite of lust consumes his thoughts, and takes hold of his heart and soul. For that reason, Paul urged Timothy, “Flee also youthful lusts” (2 Timothy 2:22).
Warning: Lust paves the way to self-destruction and death.
Proverbs 5:6 – “Lest thou shouldest ponder [consider] the path of life, her ways [that of the adulterous woman] are moveable [uncertain; wander], that thou canst not know [understand; discern] them.”
Solomon was aware that adultery would destroy his son, eroding his character and perverting his judgment. Urging his son to stay far from the path and ways of adulterous women, the king warned, such women have no moral guide; they are wanderers, driven by lust and have strayed far from “the path of life.”
Closing thoughts – Our world would have youth believe they can indulge in sexual immorality with impunity; however, only fools believe they are the exception to the consequences of sin. Be forewarned: Breaking God’s commandments (Exodus 20:14, 17) will lead you down a path of self-destruction, and adultery is not excluded. Sexual sins are the death of marriage, family, career, reputation and friendship. (Romans 6:23a)
Matthew 5:27-28 – “Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: 28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.”
Heed Paul’s exhortation, and “Flee also youthful lusts…” (2 Timothy 2:22).
Copyright © 2021 – Travis D. Smith
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