What immediate actions can we take to avoid the "sudden calamity" mentioned? Setting the Scene “Therefore calamity will come upon him suddenly; in an instant he will be shattered beyond recovery.” (Proverbs 6:15) Why Calamity Strikes Suddenly • The verse sits in a paragraph that describes a “worthless man” whose speech, motives, and actions are corrupt (Proverbs 6:12-14). • Sudden calamity is God’s sure response to unrepentant deceit, discord, and pride (see also Proverbs 29:1). Immediate Actions to Steer Clear Guard the Heart • “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23) • Expose hidden motives to the light of Scripture and ask the Spirit to root out deceit (Psalm 139:23-24). Tame the Tongue • Replace crooked speech with truthful words: “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor.” (Ephesians 4:25) • Refuse gossip and slander that sow discord (Proverbs 6:16-19). Pursue Immediate Repentance • “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us…” (1 John 1:9) • Don’t delay—turn at once when convicted (Proverbs 28:13). Seek Reconciliation • Make peace quickly with those you’ve wronged (Matthew 5:23-24). • Promote unity rather than division: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3) Choose Humility and Obedience • “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand.” (1 Peter 5:6) • Daily, practical obedience keeps us on solid ground (James 1:22). Invest in Wisdom • “Turn at my rebuke; behold, I will pour out my spirit on you… But whoever listens to me will dwell secure.” (Proverbs 1:23, 33) • Regular time in Scripture builds discernment that spots danger early. Walking Them Out Daily 1. Morning: Read a short passage, ask, “What does this reveal about my heart?” 2. Midday: Speak one intentional word of encouragement; refuse negative chatter. 3. Evening: Review interactions, repent promptly, and plan any needed reconciliation. 4. Weekly: Fast from media that stokes pride or discord; replace it with prayer and praise. Encouraging Promises to Hold On To • Proverbs 3:25-26—those who trust the LORD “will not fear sudden terror.” • Psalm 34:7—“The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and delivers them.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:9—“For God has not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Living these steps keeps us under the Lord’s shelter and far from the sudden calamity reserved for the unrepentant. |
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