Keep the Flies Out:

Making Wise Choices That Protect Your Life and Family

Last summer, I snapped a close-up photo of a Texas fly. It had been buzzing relentlessly around my head—landing on my plate, nose, and ear—until I finally swatted it mid-air. When I bent down to pick it up, I found it lying right on my napkin.

That pesky fly got me thinking. It was persistent, unrelenting, and had no moderation. It was going to keep pushing until it succeeded—or died trying.

And honestly, people can be just like that fly. Some live without moderation, chasing pleasure until it destroys them. Others try to disguise harmful habits as “moderation,” convincing themselves that as long as they set boundaries, they’re safe. But moderation, by itself, isn’t holiness.

The Danger of “Moderation”

Today, many argue that nothing is really sinful as long as it’s done “in moderation.” The logic goes: If it doesn’t hurt anyone else, then it’s okay. But Scripture paints a different picture.

Ecclesiastes 10:1 warns us that just a little foolishness can spoil much wisdom. One compromise in purity, honesty, or relationships can infect every area of life.

Think about it:

One “casual” indulgence can turn into addiction.
One reckless decision can change a life forever.
One compromise in values can ripple through an entire family.

It doesn’t take much—a single fly ruins the perfume.

The Consequences of Wrong Choices

Poor decisions lead to two kinds of consequences:

Immediate Penalties – Some sins carry visible, fast consequences. A pregnancy outside marriage, a drug overdose, or a ruined reputation can all come from a single moment of compromise.
Delayed Penalties – Other sins seem hidden, but they catch up. Addictions, broken trust, and spiritual emptiness creep in slowly. The Bible is clear: “Be sure your sins will find you out” (Numbers 32:23).

Either way, the cost is always higher than the temporary pleasure.

Where Wisdom Begins

So how do we keep the flies out of our lives, marriages, and families? Scripture gives us the answer:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:7)

And again:

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5)

Wisdom doesn’t come from culture, trends, or even our own conscience—it comes from God. He promises to guide anyone—man, woman, teen, or parent—who seeks Him.

Choices for Every Season of Life

If you’re young, don’t waste your strength on foolishness. As Ecclesiastes 12:1 reminds us, honor and enjoy your Creator now, before life wears you down.

If you’re older, it’s not too late. God redeems. He restores. He can help you live wisely today, protecting your family and strengthening your faith.

Every stage of life is an opportunity to choose purity, wisdom, and holiness.

The Right Choice

At the heart of it all, our choices reveal whether we trust ourselves—or trust God. Proverbs 3:3-12 encourages us to cling to love and loyalty, trust God with all our hearts, and run from evil. The reward? Health, joy, strength, and a life marked by blessing rather than regret.

So here’s the challenge: Don’t let a single “fly” spoil the perfume of your life. Guard your purity. Protect your family. Lean on God’s wisdom. Choose His way every time.

Because one right choice today can bless generations tomorrow.

🕊 From the Archives — Originally published on ManlyTraining.com, reworked for today.

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🔹 Author Bio / Tagline Paragraph

Eduardo Quintana is the founder of Manly Training, a faith-based movement dedicated to building strong men, strengthening families, and inspiring the next generation to live with courage, conviction, and Christ-centered leadership. Through practical teachings, discipleship studies, and biblical wisdom, Eduardo helps men and families grow in faith and purpose every day.

Eduardo Quintana
Founder of Manly Training
Building Men. Strengthening Families. Inspiring Faith.

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