Consider The Consequences

In the end she’s as bitter as wormwood and as sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps head straight for Sheol.

Proverbs 5:4-5, HCSB

AFTER A CHRISTIAN LEADER HAD an affair, he said: “If only I had considered the cost this relationship would have on my family, my career, my witness, and my reputation, I would not have done it.”

Perhaps before you venture down that same path, you should stop and weigh the long-term penalties. Adultery tries to cancel tomorrow’s consequences by emphasizing today’s delights. But it always costs more than you think. Adultery demands a toll, and the price is high.

Adultery will cost you your closest relationships. Consider the hurt and pain it will inflict on your wife and family. It will also hurt your relationship with God. Adultery can cost you your strength. You will end up weak and worn out through your deceit and cover-ups. Adultery may cost you your money. You could end up spending a great deal of money on legal expenses if your marriage ends in divorce. Adultery can negatively affect your health. Long before people heard of chlamydia, syphilis, hepatitis, HIV, or AIDS, Solomon warned that those who commit adultery experience consequences “as bitter as wormwood.” Adultery will cost you your reputation and destroy your Christian witness. You will lose respect and trust. In the end your sin will find you out. Minutes of gratification can cause a lifetime of pain.

BOTTOM LINE

Before you cross the line into sin, weigh the cost—and then don’t cross the line!

Moment of Strength: Proverbs 6:27-29