The Lord raised up judges, who saved them from the power of their marauders, but they did not listen to their judges. Instead, they prostituted themselves with other gods, bowing down to them. They quickly turned from the way of their fathers, who had walked in obedience to the Lord's commands. They did not do as their fathers did. Judges 2:16-17 HCSB
Some have said that prostitution is the world's oldest profession, but that is not true. The point of this statement is that prostitution has been around for a long time. Statistics prove that where prostitution is allowed, other crimes increase. Many women turn to prostitution because they feel it is the only way to make a living. A real tragedy are the many women and children who are forced into prostitution.
This verse in Judges records that the Israelites prostituted themselves with other gods. The Canaanite religions appealed to the sensual and selfish nature of man. Male and female prostitution was not only allowed but was encouraged as a form of worshiping false gods. Like all sin, it brought short-term gratification but long-term it destroyed people's lives. Serving the one true God does not appeal to the sinful human nature but calls on people to live in a selfless way that brings honor and glory to God.
Challenge: We cannot live a selfless life without God's help. Satan will tempt us to follow our sensual human nature and desires rather than follow God's commandments. God does not offer short-term gratification but offers an abundant life (John 10:10) here on earth and eternal life in heaven. Living by God's standards is not easy, but it is the way that brings fulfillment and happiness in life (Matthew 6:33). Christ faced and defeated Satan's temptations. Without Christ's help we cannot live God's way.
Read The Bible Through In Two Years: Genesis 23:1-20; Matthew 13:24-58