Compromise Invites an Attack by Satan

Proverbs 25:21–28
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The kindness shown in giving someone food and water makes him ashamed of being an enemy, and will soften his angry feelings (vv. 21-22). Nothing brings sorrow and strife among people more than the repeating of matter that cannot profit, and brings pain to the one of whom they are  related (v. 23). A brawling woman is said to be on the same level with a slanderer (v. 24). Any lodging is to be preferred to staying in the same house with her. In Bible times news traveled very slowly and so there were often long periods of waiting to hear when a relative or friend departed into a distant land. Any news received was precious indeed, like cold water to a thirsty soul (v. 25).

The spring has been trampled by men or animals, so that the water has been  polluted (v. 26). In the arid country of Palestine it was a great disappointment to anyone traveling to come across a spring or well that was contaminated. The same is true of a righteous man who allows his pure life to be polluted by compromise and sin. He certainly disappoints others who look to him. We also see how a city without walls is subject to enemy attacks. Any person who is tempted to compromise is subject to Satan’s attack. Seeking to exalt oneself is as bad as overeating honey (v. 27). Both bring problems. It has been said that your temper is like a fire. It get very destructive when it gets out of control. “He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls” (v. 28).

Application

As I reach my senior years one of my greatest desires is to finish well. Just a small compromise in my life could mar my testimony for the rest of my life.