Thought for the Day

Verses 1-13 - One of the miraculous things about the Bible is its relevancy for us today. Generations pass, cultures come and go, but man's issues and problems remain the same. (I use man in the dictionary sense of "the human race," including women. Though the above warning is addressed to a son by his father, it equally applies to daughters.) Sin in his heart has been man's downfall since Adam and Eve committed the first transgression.

There is an ungodly emphasis on sex all over the world. The world is filled with those who have experienced the progression of events outlined above. They are lured by temptation; but however sweet a temptress' kiss, it will have a bitter end. It is better to deny unholy pleasure for the moment in exchange for eternal reward. Moses is an example of this, as he gave up the pleasures he could have had as a prince of Egypt and chose rather to suffer with God's people (Hebrews 11:24-26). He was able to do this because he had an eternal perspective.

The devil destroys many marriages because the above advice is not heeded. Many great men have lost their honor when their illicit affairs were exposed. They may still have their marriages if they have forgiving mates, but their names are forever blighted. Others have lost families, positions, and even their health. Yielding to immoral appetites in one area causes a man to sin in other areas, leading him in a downward spiral. Sin begets sin, and sin brings corruption and death.

Sin, like righteousness, is progressive. Daily, we become either more wicked by serving sin, or more like the Lord by serving Him. God doesn't want us to waste our lives but tells us very clearly that it is our choice. "...I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live" (Deuteronomy 30:19b).