Proverbs in 31 DaysSample

A theme throughout Scripture is that there is a way of foolishness and wickedness that leads to death, and there is a way of righteousness and wisdom that leads to life. In this chapter, Solomon is going to show us both paths, as He pleads with His son to choose the path that brings about life.

In the first six verses, we see that sexual immorality, specifically adultery, leads to death. Even though the temptation may seem to be sweeter than honey (which was the sweetest substance in Israel) and smoother than oil, it is actually as bitter as gall (the most bitter substance in Israel) and leads to death. He warns His son to keep far away from the adulterous woman (v. 8), and to “not go near the door of her house.” This is a principle repeated throughout the Scriptures. When we are faced with the enticement of evil and the temptation of sin, walking in holiness isn’t merely telling yourself in your own strength to “not sin”, but instead making every effort by the grace and power of the Spirit to flee from sin.

Paul encourages us in 2 Timothy 2:22 to “flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” Peter encourages us in 1 Peter 2:11, “Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.” We must not tiptoe around sin and try to get as close to the line as possible. We must run as far from our sin as we can, and instead chase after the way of righteousness and purity. Since our sinful desires are waging war against us, we must fight faithfully by fleeing!

Though sexual immorality leads to death, there is a way of righteousness and wisdom that brings about life. It is found in walking in God’s way and design. In this specific chapter, Solomon speaks of the joy that is found in walking in God’s design as it relates to sexual intimacy in the context of marriage. Intimacy one experiences in marriage ought to be reserved for one another alone in the safety and protection of the marriage covenant. There is joy, blessing, and satisfaction to be found in the love and physical intimacy of your spouse. This is the way God intended it. To walk in the righteousness and wisdom of purity leads to the good life God intends for us. This applies to other areas of our lives too! No matter if you are single or married, the eternal principle of walking in God's design rather than pursuing our own sinful desires applies to us all. Sin ensnares us, but walking in the wisdom of God’s best brings about freedom!