Friday, February 20, 2009
To Keep Thee
(Proverbs 6:20-35)
American culture is becoming, by and large, a cesspool. Every aspect of the pop scene—T.V., internet, music, movies, printed literature, even video games—has been sexualized for the sake of profit and at the cost of decency. Without even seeking it, Christian men find themselves continually bombarded with images designed to tantalize and entice sensually. How can Christian men escape unscathed in an all-pervasive sexually charged atmosphere?
The answer, of course, is the Word of God, the Bible. Proverbs 6:20-23 recommend continual exposure to God’s Word as an antidote to the sensuous poison of our culture. In fact, the Bible’s “mission” to men is “to keep thee from the evil woman” (24). In other words, God’s word—when diligently read and meditated upon—is a “lamp and a light” to guide men away from temptation and sin.
When internalized, God’s commandments lead our steps, guard our sleep (even our dreams), and communicate to us every waking minute, providing both reproofs and instruction (22, 23). This active ministry of the Bible in our lives protects us from a culture awash in sensuality.
Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word. –Psalm 119:9
