How can Proverbs 7:23 guide us in resisting temptation today? Text in Focus “till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare—little knowing it will cost him his life.” (Proverbs 7:23) The Picture Painted • A swift, fatal arrow—temptation strikes faster than we expect. • A trapped bird—temptation feels like freedom but ends in bondage. • The unnoticed cost—sin always demands more than it advertises. Timeless Lessons for Today • Temptation is not harmless; it is lethal. • The danger lies in what we “little know” or refuse to ponder. • Consequences arrive suddenly, not gradually. Practical Steps to Resist Temptation 1. See the arrow before it flies. ‑ Train the mind to connect sinful choices with deadly outcomes. 2. Stay out of the snare’s range. ‑ Avoid people, places, and media that bait the trap (Proverbs 4:14-15). 3. Keep God’s Word close. ‑ “Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart.” (Proverbs 7:3) 4. Guard the heart daily. ‑ “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23) 5. Use the provided escape. ‑ “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man… He will also provide an escape.” (1 Corinthians 10:13) 6. Remember the hidden cost. ‑ “Desire, having conceived, gives birth to sin; and sin, when full-grown, gives birth to death.” (James 1:15) Scriptures to Keep Handy • Psalm 119:11 — hiding the Word for protection • Matthew 26:41 — watch and pray, lest you enter temptation • Ephesians 6:11-17 — the armor of God for daily battle • 2 Timothy 2:22 — flee youthful passions, pursue righteousness Walking Away with Wisdom When temptation whispers, picture the arrow, hear the snap of the snare, and remember the life it aims to steal. Store up Scripture, steer clear of danger zones, and step through the escape God faithfully provides. |
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