Proverbs 23:27-28 For a whore is a deep ditch; and a strange woman is a narrow pit. She also lieth in wait as for a prey, and increaseth the transgressors among men. 

‘She also lieth in wait as for a prey, and increaseth the transgressors among men.’ Scripture now describes the immoral person as a hunter lying in ambush. The picture is that of a robber or predator hiding beside the road, waiting for an unsuspecting traveller. Likewise, temptation is often deliberate, patient, deceptive, and opportunistic.

It waits for moments of loneliness, discouragement, pride, curiosity, anger, or spiritual weakness. That’s why the first warning to guard your heart is so important to avoid useless and ungodly feelings that open the door to the enemy (1Pet. 5:7-10). The enemy rarely attacks when believers are strongest but often when they are least watchful.

The immoral person seeks victims rather than healthy relationships. This language highlights the selfish nature of sexual [as well as other] temptation. Its goal is not genuine love but self-gratification, often at another person’s expense. Like a hunter waiting for prey, temptation studies weaknesses, appeals to natural desires, disguises danger, and promises pleasure while concealing the cost. This is why Scripture repeatedly urges believers to be vigilant and self-controlled.

To be continued…