Proverbs 7:8

He went the way to her house.

Occasions of sin

I. Many occasions of sin present themselves unlooked for.

1. All places afford temptations.

2. All times have theirs.

3. All things afford it.

4. So do all conditions, all actions, and all persons.

Therefore we need to keep a constant watch, since we are not secure in any place, time, or condition. Then suspect all things with a holy suspicion.

II. It is dangerous coming near bad houses.

1. Much danger may come from within.

2. Much danger from without; for ruffians and quarrellers haunt such places.

3. Judgment may be feared from heaven.

III. Idleness is the nurse of wantonness.

1. Because nature is corrupt, and of all sins most inclines to wantonness.

2. The soul is very active both in our waking and sleeping, and if it move us not to good it will move us to bad actions.

3. Because labour removes the rubs in the way of wantonness. Spiritual duties and labour in our vocation take the heart, eyes, and ears off from wanton objects. The heart set at liberty by idleness falls upon them with greediness.

4. God’s judgment follows idleness to give such over to wantonness. Take heed of idleness. Many think it either no sin or a light one. (Francis Taylor, B. D.)