Devotional

The Price of Folly

Michael Beck

“If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.” (Proverbs 9:12)

Only a complete fool would open their door to a known thief or murderer. How then do men so willingly give access to powers of darkness, who come only to steal, kill, and destroy? They do so because the devil and all his minions disguise themselves as benefactors and life-givers. Like the splendid Trojan Horse of old they are permitted to enter only to bring simple fools to ruin.

The devil’s success depends on his ability to deceive. He always come bearing gifts. He custom-tailors his bait to each person’s sweet tooth. In the end, those who keep their soul are those who have eyes to see the ruse and refuse the subtle temptation.

The deceiver wants us to judge through a distorted lens. Having our lives and homes and heart kept safe and sound depends on us having a sober mind which sees things clearly, as they are in truth. We cannot expect to be spiritually sound when our thinking is directly contrary to the judgment of God. “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” (Isaiah 5:20) Learn to call things as God sees it.

Having wisdom is having God’s perspective. There are consequences to be borne for a lack of wisdom. Don’t discover too late that you’ve been had. When the deceiver knocks, pretend you’re not home. He’ll go away.


Michael Beck is a pastor in the Dallas, TX area and the main author on Signpost. Receive a daily devotional he publishes every morning via email.