Heed the Warning
Heed the Warning
1 Corinthians 10:12 “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!”
I have been very disturbed the past few days. The recent accusations of wrongdoing against Bill Cosby, a very well-known and loved celebrity has caused me and others to stop short and think sober thoughts. Could these charges actually be true? I truly hope not, but who knows?
With the constant discussion of this disturbing circumstance all over the news I couldn’t help but consider the world we live in. It is easy to look at others and judge them for their actions, but the Bible clearly states that all of us are sinners. From the very beginning of our lives we were born with a sin nature – one in which the possibilities of wickedness are limitless.
As I pondered these things, I considered three directives that we would all do well to take to heart.
1. Never Pride Yourself in Your Goodness – Today’s verse tells us to be careful about thinking you could never fall into a sin that someone else has committed. Pride tells us we are safe, but all temptations are possibilities for us if we are not careful.
2. Protect Yourself from the Evil One – The Bible constantly gives warnings about protecting yourself from the evil one. James 4:7 says to submit yourself to God and resist the evil one. Ephesians 6 directs us to put on the armor of God so that we can take our stand against the devil’s schemes. And 1 Peter 5:8 reminds us to be alert and self-controlled because our adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
3. Develop a Penitent Heart – When you do sin, go immediately to the Father and ask forgiveness. He promises that if we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). Do not try to hide or cover up wrongdoing, but take responsibility and make it right. If you have wronged someone, go to them and ask forgiveness even if there are consequences. Nip it in the bud immediately instead of waiting for it to come out later (because it will). Remember, you can never hide anything from God.
My heart is sad. Not just because another famous person has been accused of wrongdoing, but because I know that same sin nature is always waiting to gain control in my life and in yours. But I am thankful that God is faithful and has made a way to escape temptation so that we can stand up under it. You just have to listen to His warnings and obey.
Love,
Mama
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Hi, I'm Sandy!
I write inspirational letters based on the Bible that share words of hope, encouragement, truth, and healing to my children and anyone else who longs for a mama's touch.
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Thank you for this devotional. I didn't this reminder as I was discouraged this week with the accusations against Bill Cosby. I need to be reminded that I need to be on guard at all times against the enemy. I need to listen to His warnings. Hide His promises that He has given me in my heart that I might not fall into sin against Him. Thank you for this reminder!
I am sure many people feel upset by these accusations, but it is a good reminder to heed God's warning to be on our guard constantly.