“Whoever is naïve, let him turn in here.” To those who lack understanding, she says… Proverbs 9:16, TLV
Whose Invite Will You Accept? There are two voices in today’s chapter: Wisdom (9:1-12) and Folly (9:13-18). If you notice, both Wisdom and Folly call out to the naïve and invite them to join them. In fact, they say the exact same thing.
In our verse today, Folly is speaking. Does it seem like she’s trying to compete with Wisdom for souls? Absolutely.
What’s interesting is that these few verses give us insights into how deception and seduction work.
The Invitations
Where Wisdom takes the time to prepare for “guests,” Folly is all over the place. She’s loud, extroverted, grabs attention. No doubt she can out-shout Wisdom.
While Wisdom doesn’t invite folks until all is ready. Folly doesn’t know enough to prepare. She’s selling the “sizzle of the steak” — but there is no steak.
Wisdom requires commitment, Folly says no one needs commitment, in fact, take what you want, when you want it.
Wisdom continues to “feed” those she invites, and her promises are 
true. Folly’s promises are lies. Once that poor soul walks through the door, they are doomed.
Were that it was so easy to spot deception and seduction. As I’ve traveled Wisdom’s Journey, it is easier to spot Folly’s easy deceptions. Her lies are more obvious. However, we can’t be lax in our vigilance.
Watching out for deception and seduction is critical to our faith journey. Because the enemy of our souls always has a new trick up his slimy sleeve.
Our Example…
In Matthew 4, Yeshua was led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit to be tempted by the father of lies. He went to show us how to overcome temptation. The enemy used the temptations he thought best suited this situation.
Had Jesus not been hungry and alone, He may not have had the same difficulty He experienced. His obedience to His Father to not simply relieve His hunger or do away with the annoying liar whispering in His ear was a testimony of self-control.
Not only is He our Messiah and Savior, but He is our example and teacher. I for one am very grateful for the invitation.
We will be better able to spot lies when we fully know the truth. And that takes commitment, doesn’t it? But it’s worth it, right?
Really Think More About It
What about us? When we’re invited to Wisdom’s home and Folly’s home, who do we choose? Flashy or real? Commitment or easy promises? Can we spot the tricks of the enemy? Or are we halfway through the door when we realize we’ve been fooled?
If this blog has been helpful, please comment. As always, I truly appreciate the shares.
