Wisdom paints a clear picture for us in the book of Proverbs, so we can discern between the seductress and the wise woman. Both voices can be heard in the streets. Both vie for our attention every day, but only one leads to enduring riches and righteousness for generations. 

Today’s verse describes the attractiveness of sin, so we can veer away from it: The harlot is an eye-catcher. She dresses to appeal to the eye with the intent to grab one’s attention. Her heart is cunning, sneaky, and sly. Her feet, swift to mischief, are not where they should be, at home with her family. Lurking at every corner, like a predator on the prowl, she looks for whom she can devour. Loud and rebellious, with a sassy voice, she has the audacity to declare she has been at church and has paid her offerings. She snags the foolish passerby, luring him in, and then kisses him. From such situations, Run! The joy of the hypocrite is but for a moment. Though evil is sweet in the mouth, even hidden under the tongue, eventually, the food will turn sour. (Job 20:5,12-14) In other words, there is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.

It is wisdom that speaks: “I, wisdom, dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge and discretion. The fear of the Lord is to hate evil, pride and arrogance and the evil way … I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me. Riches and honor are with me, enduring riches and righteousness. My fruit is better than gold, yes than fine gold…” (Proverbs 8:12,13,17-19) God’s wisdom always leads to life.

In God’s merciful kindness, Jesus has been made unto us wisdom, so we can make the right choices. “It is because of Him, you are in Christ Jesus, who has been made unto us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification and redemption.” (1 Corinthians 1:30) It behooves us to listen to him. For whoever finds wisdom finds life and obtains favor from the Lord. We who have ears to hear his words, so let us hear.

Querido Padre Celestial,

I confess that I have given into crafty intentions. Help me flee the sinful desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace along with all who call on God from a pure heart. Help me never use faith or religious appearance to gain fleshly advantage or to tempt others to sin. Also, keep me far from the temptations of the spirit of prostitution. Keep warning me through Scripture, through Your Holy Spirit, through prophetic voices, and through circumstances. And if I do sin, help me get caught quickly and be brought to repentance. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Notice the phrase “she caught him.” Be alert. Know the Word of God. As David said in Psalm 119:11 (ESV), “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” Regardless of who brings temptation, regardless of fancy words, trust Scripture and flee from sexual immorality. Briefly share such an incident with your spouse, if you are married, or with a trusted friend. Light is the enemy of darkness.