Topical Encyclopedia In the Scriptures, the practice of early rising is often associated with diligence and devotion, as seen in the lives of the righteous. However, the Bible also acknowledges that early rising can be employed by the wicked for deceitful purposes. This duality highlights the moral neutrality of the act itself, which can be used for both virtuous and nefarious ends, depending on the intent of the individual.Biblical Instances of Early Rising for Deceit: 1. Micah 2:1 · The prophet Micah provides a vivid depiction of the wicked who rise early to execute their malevolent plans. The verse states, "Woe to those who devise iniquity and plot evil on their beds! At morning light they accomplish it because it is in their power to do so." Here, the early risers are not commended for their industriousness but are condemned for using their time to carry out evil schemes. The morning light, a symbol of new beginnings and hope, is instead used as an opportunity to fulfill their wicked intentions. 2. Proverbs 4:16 · This proverb further illustrates the restless nature of the wicked, who are driven to rise early to commit wrongdoing. "For they cannot sleep unless they have done evil; they are robbed of slumber until they make someone fall." The urgency with which the wicked pursue their deceitful acts is underscored by their inability to rest until their plans are realized. Early rising, in this context, becomes a tool for perpetuating harm and injustice. 3. Jeremiah 7:13 · The prophet Jeremiah warns of the consequences of ignoring God's repeated calls to repentance, highlighting the persistence of the wicked in their ways. "And now, because you have done all these things, declares the LORD, and because I have spoken to you again and again but you did not listen, and I have called you but you did not answer," suggests that the wicked rise early not to heed God's voice but to pursue their own deceitful desires, ignoring divine warnings. Moral Implications: The Bible's portrayal of early rising for deceit serves as a cautionary tale about the misuse of time and opportunity. While rising early is often associated with positive attributes such as discipline and commitment, the Scriptures remind us that these qualities can be subverted for evil purposes. The wicked, in their eagerness to execute their plans, demonstrate a perverse form of diligence that ultimately leads to their downfall. In a broader sense, these passages call believers to examine their own motivations and the ways in which they use their time. The righteous are encouraged to rise early for prayer, worship, and the pursuit of godly endeavors, aligning their actions with the will of God. In contrast, the wicked's early rising for deceit serves as a stark reminder of the potential for corruption when one's heart is not aligned with divine principles. By understanding the biblical perspective on early rising for deceit, believers are better equipped to discern the intentions behind their actions and to strive for a life that honors God in all aspects, including the use of their time. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 27:14He that blesses his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Doctrinal and Moral Treatises. Index of Subjects. The Blessing of Jacob Upon Judah. (Gen. Xlix. 8-10. ) Tit. 2:06 Thoughts for Young Men Analysis of the Westminster Confession. Period iii. The Critical Period: AD 140 to AD 200 Period iv. The Age of the Consolidation of the Church: 200 to 324 ... The Iranian Conquest Some Gospel Truths Opened, According to the Scriptures; Or, the ... The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus. Resources What is the Epistle of Barnabas? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the apocryphal gospels? | GotQuestions.org Why did the early Mormons believe in plural marriage? | GotQuestions.org Early: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Early Rising: Christ Set an Example of Early Rising: Illustrates Spiritual Diligence Early Rising: Neglect of, Leads to Poverty Early Rising: Practised by the Wicked, For: Deceit Early Rising: Practised by the Wicked, For: Executing Plans of Evil Early Rising: Requisite For: Devotion Early Rising: Requisite For: Discharge of Daily Duties Early Rising: Requisite For: Executing God's Commands Related Terms |