This chapter of Proverbs continues in instruction to stay wise to the things of God. We are shown the path we must take, where marriage is honourable and adultery is condemned. Proverbs includes many warnings against immorality. Solomon is teaching his son to be aware of the “adulteress” (vs 3) as to be tempted by her and to do wrong leads to foregoing all wisdom. Sexual immorality of any kind was, and still is dangerous. It destroys family life, erodes a person’s ability to love and degrades human beings. Ultimately, sexual immorality is against God’s law.
Verses 3-8 warns against being taken in by flattery –“lips that drip honey”- as it can be used to cause someone to sin. The best advice is to avoid conversation with such people. Taking advice is the wisest action when tempted. Others can see more clearly and will be the voice of wisdom for us. Dangers and foolishness can be pointed out before it’s too late and causes harm (vs 10-14).
Regret is a horrible feeling. We can’t turn back time and have a re-run of the times we made mistakes. We have to live with them. To a point, regret is inevitable as we are imperfect, but seeking advice from others before making big decisions can help us hear God clearly and choose His option in any situation.
“Drink water from your own cistern” (vs 16) is a picture of faithfulness in marriage. In desert lands, water is precious and a well is a family’s most important possession. In Old Testament times, it was considered a crime to steal water from someone else’s well, just as stealing someone’s wife was! In both cases, the offender endangers the health and security of families.
God designed marriage and only within this covenant relationship can we find find real love and fulfilment. I read this a while ago: “Don’t let God’s best for you be wasted on the illusion of greener pastures somewhere else.” If we want to practise effective living, we need to truly believe this.
Jesus said in Matthew 7:24-27 that the wise man builds his house on rock. When the storm comes the house is strong. The fool builds his house on sand, which falls down when the storm comes. Our lives should be built on a strong base. That base should be God.
The Strategy for Effective Living
Begins with seeking God’s Wisdom
Requires a trusting in God’s Word and allowing it to speak to us
Requires acting on God’s direction daily
Results in effective living and experiencing what God does with our obedience
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Prayer: Father God, help us to live the lives you have given us effectively. Lead us to the people who will provide us with the advice we need to hear in times of temptation. Free us from regrets and lead us on into complete lives, trusting in you in obedience. Thank you that You know what is best for us and show us how to continue building a strong base in You. Amen.