The high school I attended was known for its wrestling program. Our coach was a former boxer and college wrestler, and his staff was made up of state champion animals. It was a rare occasion when our wrestling teamdidn’twin a competition. Donnie was the team captain and undefeated headed into his regional match to advance into the state championship. His opponent was undefeated as well, but to us, Donnie was immortal. Our Spartan versus theirs. Seats were packed and the student section was going crazy as the match began, but the hype and momentum were quickly silenced as we watched Donnie, for the first time in his career, get taken down and smothered while on his back.

It was a humble reminder that even the strongest of men meet their match. As we read through Proverbs 7, I can’t help but come to that same realization. In a chapter filled with red flags and the alarming sexual promiscuity that leads to destruction, there’s a line that should jump off the page and grip us all. Proverbs 7:26 warns, “Many are the victims she has brought down; her slain are a mighty throng.” The King James Version captures the gravity of the statement even more: “Her slain are strong men.”

The metaphor of Proverbs 7 is that sexual sin if allowed to linger, will bring everyone and everything in its path to total destruction. The caution of verse 26 is to never think you or I are strong enough to not be taken down. That very mindset is the starting path of the ox being “led to the slaughter.”

While we’re not strong enough, the Holy Spirit is stronger than the temptation of sin. By God’s power, we become strong enough to win the fight against the wayward path. If you’re struggling with sexual sin, start with the Holy Spirit. Ask Him to strengthen you, read every verse in Scripture about Him, and constantly beg Him for power. Next, invite a friend into the battle. There’s always strength in numbers when fighting sexual sin. The fight can be won, but not on our own. By the power of the Holy Spirit and the strength of people with you in the battle, I pray you will experience victory like never before!