READING: Proverbs 5-8
“I would not obey my teachersor turn my ear to my instructors.And I was soon in serious trouble in the assembly of God’s people.”
Proverbs 5:14
Proverbs 5 deals with agonies brought on by adultery, but the chapter also includes a statement that can well apply to other sin issues as well: “The evil deeds of the wicked ensnare them; the cords of their sins hold them fast” (Prov. 5:22). Such is the wicked nature of sin. It too often grabs us, and we give into it over and over again—until its cords wrap around us with chains of bondage. The lure is powerful and attractive, but the snare is deadly.
Meanwhile, when we ignore God’s discipline and reject the guidance of our teachers while we’re living in our sin, we find ourselves “in serious trouble in the assembly of God’s people” (Prov. 5:14). We do not deceive the Lord with our choices; our “ways are in full view of the Lord” (Prov. 5:21). Thus, we are always wisest to pay attention to wisdom: “Now then, my children, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Listen to my instruction and be wise;do not disregard it” (Prov. 5:32-33).
The frightening reality is that it’s easy to recognize these truths, but not always so easy to live them out. May God help all of us to follow Him fully.
ACTION STEPS:
- Be wise today. Be aware of the power of sin.
- If you know someone now caught in the trap of sin, pray for him or her.
PRAYER: “God, help me to cling to You even as You first cling to me. Help all of us.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Proverbs 9-12