“She gives no thought to the way of life; her paths wander aimlessly, but she does not know it.”
I’ve read this chapter of Proverbs hundreds of times before. The evil temptations and traps of the adulterous woman are a very common theme with Solomon, and for good reason. Adultery is running rampant in our culture. It has become increasingly common and socially acceptable. However, that is not what caught my attention when I read this verse a few moments ago. I don’t know that I had ever really noticed the last six words of this verse in my previous readings. I would read it and see the adulterous woman as the evil temptress, intentionally seeking to lead God’s people astray. The fact that she behaved this way and was oblivious to the fact that she was being used by the evil one escaped me completely. It is easy to blame our sin on others. It is easy to blame the brokenness in our lives, our families, our communities, and our country on other people. In reality, they are not the evil one. Satan works through people who are certainly open and willing to be used by him, but who are often oblivious to the damage they are causing. It is a reminder that all people are redeemable when they are surrendered to the hands of our God. It is also a firm reminder that we are all accountable for our own actions and our own sin. We truly are without excuse. Today, allow the spotlight of the Holy Spirit to search out the sin in your life, repent, return to Him, and be reconciled. #BeTheEdge
“See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:24 NIV
