Prostitution has never been considered a good thing in either Jewish or Christian teachings. It is one of the most insidious problems any society ever faces. In Solomon’s day, it was prevalent, and some scholars believe it was even part of certain practices at synagogues. Simply put, it is evil. Beyond that, this verse speaks to all manner of desire-driven sin. Desires are not inherently bad. God gives us the desire for our spouse. He gives us the desire for good food and drink. He is the author of our desire for healthy relationships. Desires can be a great gift from Him. Lustful desires, gluttony, taking advantage of others in relationships, and even sacrificing the best for others to fulfill our own desires are evil. In the end—which often is not far from their beginning—comes emptiness, poverty, and destruction. God has created us for better than the cheap deceptions of the evil one. Satan offers counterfeits to God’s perfect gifts. The shortcuts he offers can tempt us away from what God holds for His creation. Today, flee the cheap alternatives and receive God’s best. #BeTheEdge
“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.” 2 Timothy 2:22 NIV
