Proverbs Project: Chapter 7

In verse 3, Solomon writes that wisdom is our sister, our closest kin.

A sister is a best friend, a side-kick, a role model, an ear to listen, a should to cry on, a light of guidance, and a loving heart. Thinking of wisdom as my sister, in all reality, amazes me. I think of my little sister when I read that verse. She eleven years younger than me, but I still look up to her. Her innocent way of life makes me look at life differently, and through they eyes of someone who doesn’t let anything ruin her day.

Wisdom is my sister too. Wisdom is there to guide me and lead me. I don’t have a biological older sister, but I have a spiritual one. She is always there ready and willing to give me advice. She even has the power to silence the little devil on my should trying to tempt me, and she knows my weaknesses.

In contrast to Wisdom, is the Seductress that Solomon writes about. She is temptation. She is sin. She is evil. This harlot, this prostitute if you will, is “lurking on every street corner” (Verse 12), and she is “loud and rebellious” (Verse 11), even though we are called to be “quick to listen and slow to speak” (James 1:19).

This sinful Seductress will make everything seem so glamorous and fulfilling. “I have spread my bed with tapestry, colored coverings of Egyptian linen. I have perfumed my bed, with myrrh, aloes and cinnamon.” Sinful temptations will make a situation look so enticing, and so intriguing. We all know that feeling of internal battle. Is this right or wrong? Will it be worth it? Is it really that bad?

We already know the answer. Solomon writes that Wisdom, if you so desire and ask for it, will teach to open your ears and avoid her astray paths. The Seductress’ words will be “enticing” and “flattering.”

But listen to Solomon. Listen to Wisdom. Listen to the Holy Spirit. Listen to Christ. Listen to God.