05/08/08

The willful sinner is always looking for converts

2 Corinthians 4:2 - Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.

It's difficult to move from deceiver to one who renounces secret and shameful ways. We are always tempted to revert. But our daily behavior commends or condemns us. Interestingly, this is not just my conscience problem; it places a conscience problem on each of my associates. Suppose I want to do a shady deal and want my friend to go along. He knows me well and sees me as deceptive and dishonest - yet look what a spot I'm putting him in. Being aware of my "secret and shameful ways" he is faced with turning his back on our friendship, or going along and corrupting his own conscience.

There is no principle of evil more uniformly true than this: Evil always wants bring about evil in others. The man with no conscience puts all around him in embarrassing, stressful, and conscience corrupting situations. The willful sinner is always looking for converts. Is this not another facet of the words of Paul, "Be not unequally yoked with unbelievers?" (2 Cor 6:14)


[ Prayer Starter ]
Father, in all we do help us to keep our consciences clear and never to place someone else in the position of abusing their conscience by associating with us. I make this prayer in Jesus' Name, Amen.

The Word of God was given free to us, therefore we should also share it freely with others.
(All rights are with God)