Cause And Effect

Read Proverbs 6

So it is with the man who sleeps with another man’s wife. He who embraces her will not go unpunished.

Proverbs 6:29

One of the distinctive features of a proverb is its ability to put a new spin on an old truth. Common sense appears uncommonly wise when phrased in the form of a proverb. So it is with this particular truth concerning the inevitability of punishment for sin. Certainly, the context of sexual promiscuity is particularly relevant, although the principle can apply to any wrongdoing. Sin brings consequences—plain and simple.

The proverb details a “what goes up must come down” common-sense philosophy. Yet, consider the lengths many people will go to to defy common sense. We rationalize wrongdoing. We believe we are the exception to the rule. Like a driver racing under a lowered railroad crossing guard, we interpret the odds in our favor. We routinely practice the fool’s philosophy of “just this once.” Why else would we continue to stoop to sin unless we somehow believed we wouldn’t be punished? This proverb reminds us of the certainty of consequences, despite our best arguments against it.

A WORD FOR TODAY

Adultery has consequences.

Today, Lord, I need to be reminded of the seriousness of sin and not rationalize wrongdoing.