Solomon's instructions continue to unfold in the dramatic framework of chapter 7. We've

imagined our young man seated for a man-to-man talk across the mahogany desk in his wise father's 5th floor

study. They have observed the busy streets of worldliness from their window vantage point. These two scenes

are then followed by two more illustrating the occasion and consequences of covenant unfaithfulness. These are

the tests of Ii fe that make or break a man. While the instruction of wisdom from the Word of God is sufficient to

guard against these dangers, the stakes are high and the intensity of temptation should not be underestimated.

This is a classic scenario of wisdom vs. foolishness. In the warnings against adultery & fornication in the source

of wisdom's study, we consider situations where we are most vulnerable, wisdom is most likely to be

disregarded, and consequences are most devastating. The literary devices call out: "Pay attention if you know

what's good for you young man!"