Guard Your Heart

Our proverb today warns us that when sexual temptation comes, it is strong. Therefore the Word of God must hold us stronger. Godly parents who teach their children to love God’s Word are giving the greatest gift and protection a child could ever have.

My son, keep your father’s commandsand do not forsake your mother’s teaching.Bind them upon your heart forever;fasten them around your neck.When you walk, they will guide you;when you sleep, they will watch over you;when you awake, they will speak to you.For these commands are a lamp,this teaching is a light,and the corrections of disciplineare the way to life,keeping you from the immoral woman,from the smooth tongue of the wayward wife.Do not lust in your heart after her beautyor let her captivate you with her eyes,for the prostitute reduces you to a loaf of bread,and the adulteress preys upon your very life.

Proverbs 6:20-26 (NIV)

In Homer’ story The Odyssey, Odysseus was warned that he and his crew would sail near the land of the Sirens, whose song would enchant them and lure them to their death, where they would join others who had fallen and whose bones had rotted. Circe warned, “You must sail straight on past. Lash yourself with ropes on the mast, and if you are tempted, have someone tie you even tighter.”

Temptations will come; none of us should kid ourselves. The Word of God, hidden, treasured, and obeyed deep in our hearts, will hold us fast and keep us safe.

Make It Personal . . . Live It Out!

The moral of the story of the Sirens is this: don’t trust your emotions. Don’t leave your heart unguarded. It’s a dangerous world out there. There are lots of women who did not receive instruction about morality and wise living as they grew up. Maybe you didn’t. It’s never too late. Get involved in a women’s Bible study! The combination of fellowship, accountability, and growing together in God’s Word is powerful and wonderful.

Let’s Pray

Lord, help me to bind your words close to my heart; tie me tighter to you. Please guard my heart and hold me safe.

One Year Bible Reading

Exodus 15:19–17:7; Matthew 22:1-33; Psalm 27:1-6; Proverbs 6:20-26