What practical steps can we implement to identify "men who lie in wait"? Foundational Verse “My son, if sinners entice you, do not yield to them. If they say, ‘Come along, let us lie in wait for blood; let us ambush the innocent without cause’ …” (Proverbs 1:10-11) Who Are the “Men Who Lie in Wait”? • People whose plans require secrecy, deception, or violence • Smooth talkers who entice the unsuspecting (Proverbs 1:10) • Individuals whose words or actions set traps for others (Proverbs 12:6) Step 1 — Stay Immersed in Scripture • Daily reading equips the mind to spot lies (Psalm 119:105). • “All Scripture is God-breathed … so that the man of God may be complete” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Step 2 — Watch for the Enticing Invitation • “Come along with us” (Proverbs 1:11) often sounds harmless. • Red flags: quick promises of gain, pressure to decide immediately, disregard for moral restraint. Step 3 — Examine Their Fruit • “By their fruit you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:16). Look for: – Consistent honesty or frequent half-truths? – Respect for authority or secret rebellion? – Compassion or exploitation of the weak? Step 4 — Test Their Words Against Truth • “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). • Compare every suggestion with clear commands of Scripture (Acts 17:11). Step 5 — Notice Secretive Methods • The wicked “lies in wait near the villages” (Psalm 10:8-9). • Hidden agendas, private meetings, or requests for secrecy often signal danger. Step 6 — Seek Godly Counsel • “With many counselors there is victory” (Proverbs 11:14). • Bring questionable proposals into the light with mature believers. Step 7 — Guard Your Associations • “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). • Walk with the wise; distance yourself from habitual schemers (Proverbs 13:20). Step 8 — Maintain Spiritual Alertness • “Be sober-minded and alert” (1 Peter 5:8). • Put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) to discern subtle threats. Step 9 — Set Clear Boundaries • “My son, do not walk the road with them or set foot upon their path” (Proverbs 1:15). Practical boundaries: – Say a firm, polite “No” to compromising invitations. – Avoid environments where evil plans are hatched. – Keep finances, devices, and schedules transparent. Step 10 — Respond Wisely When You Spot Them • Expose fruitless deeds of darkness (Ephesians 5:11). • Protect the vulnerable; alert proper authorities if harm is imminent. • Continue in kindness and truth, refusing to repay evil with evil (Romans 12:17-21). By following these Scripture-anchored steps, believers can recognize and avoid the “men who lie in wait,” staying on the path of wisdom and safety. |
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