How Naive Can You Get?
November 19, 2019
Commentary
Solomon presents a shameful scene that has been repeated millions of times and remains just as true today as it was in his own time. As we read, it stands as a clear warning to any young man about the danger of trusting his own heart, drifting away from the instruction of God’s Word, and ignoring the wise counsel of parents. This young man does not appear to be intentionally heading toward the woman’s house, yet he likely knew where she lived. Even so, he placed himself near temptation and was gradually enticed, choosing to walk where danger waited. If we truly desire to avoid the devil’s schemes, we must learn to stay far from his ways and remain alert and cautious at all times, remembering that consequences are real and lasting.
   
Solomon then carefully describes the tactics the woman used to draw him in. She dressed in a way meant to attract attention and appeal to his desires (v. 10). She acted boldly, suddenly embracing and kissing him without shame (v. 13). She pretended to be religious, speaking of sacrifices and inviting him to share the meat, using spiritual language to disguise her sinful intent (v. 14). She flattered him, making him feel special and desired, appealing to his pride and ego (v. 15).
   
She continued by describing her bedroom in detail, creating an image meant to excite his imagination and weaken his resistance (vv. 16–17). Finally, she assured him that there would be no consequences, claiming her husband was away and that no one would discover their actions (v. 18). Each step shows how temptation often works slowly, using attraction, flattery, false secu-rity, and deception. This passage reminds us that naivety and overconfidence can quickly lead to ruin when wisdom and self-control are ignored.
Application
I pause and examine where I am walking today. Am I placing myself near temptation without thinking? What situations, places, or influences should I avoid right now? Do I recognize flattery when it comes, or do I enjoy it too much? How can I choose wisdom and caution today, before temptation grows strong and harder to resist?
Proverbs 7:10–18 (NET)
10 Suddenly a woman came out to meet him! She was dressed like a prostitute and with secret intent.
11 (She is loud and rebellious, she does not remain at home—
12 at one time outside, at another in the wide plazas, and by every corner she lies in wait.)
13 So she grabbed him and kissed him, and with a bold expression she said to him,
14 “I have meat from my peace offerings at home; today I have fulfilled my vows!
15 That is why I came out to meet you, to look for you, and I found you!
16 I have spread my bed with elegant coverings, with richly colored fabric from Egypt.
17 I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.
18 Come, let’s drink deeply of lovemaking until morning, let’s delight ourselves with love’s pleasures.
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