For her house sinks down to death and her tracks to the dead. Proverbs 2:18, TLV

Spiritual Quicksand!     Every time I read this proverb, I think of quicksand. Did you know that there are different types of quicksand? Some are more dangerous than others. Quicksand forms when water enters the sand (or clay or silt, or any combination thereof) and cannot escape. Once the water is trapped, it creates a liquefied soil.

When something disturbs the gelatinous mess — like us — it will sink and create a vacuum. Depending upon the type of quicksand, that vacuum could be so strong that removing one leg would take the same amount of force it would take to lift a medium-sized car.

There are ways to remove ourselves from quicksand, but in most cases assistance is required. The best way to escape the dangers of quicksand is to avoid it altogether. And, if there are warning signs, heed them!

Where Am I Going with This?

So, really, what does this have to do with today’s proverb? Simply: Temptation of any type is like quicksand.

Generally, there are warning signs when we’re being tempted. A feeling. Experience with it in the past. Other’s warnings. Learning how to “read” these signs is the first step to avoiding danger.

Next, being observant that we’re entering an area that may put us at risk. Asking ourselves: do we need to be in this place? Or what is the best path to avoid the dangerous spots?

Finally, if we’re easily susceptible to a particular temptation, learning how to remove ourselves once we’re stuck, is easiest when there are others to help us — as soon as possible. Don’t attempt on your own because by the time we ask for help it may be too late.

If we don’t pay attention to the signs or choose to proceed even if we step into “quicksand,” we run the risk of that temptation overtaking us. And that’s a place none of us wants to be, yes?

Life Choices

The fear — and love — of ADONAI (the LORD) is the beginning of wisdom (Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 9:10). Living, studying, and learning wisdom is how we can avoid the quicksand of life.

Having traveling companions for this Wisdom’s Journey keeps us accountable and can yank us from those risky areas.

Our loving Heavenly Father has systems in place to help us avoid temptations — why not use them. Amen?

Think More About It

Ever run into quicksand? How did you escape? If this blog is a blessing, please share. Thank you!

Until tomorrow, may we learn to spot the quicksands of life, my friends.

Thank you for your continued support and prayers for Israel, dear friends. God bless you!