Deceit Hardens Hearts

Hebrews 3:13 says, “But exhort one another daily…lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” Calloused hearts have hidden sin. Romans 5:12 says that through Adam sin entered the world. Adam and Eve bore Cain and Abel.

Cain’s sacrifice was not accepted, though Abel’s was. Genesis 4:5 says, “…Cain was very angry, and his countenance fell.” In verse 7 God asked Cain a question. It says, “If you do well, will you not be accepted?…”

Cain’s sin remained hidden. His anger smoldered until in rage he killed his brother. He did not do what God had said. Verse 7 continued, “…sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it.”

Hidden sin is the trap-stick in satan’s trap. Hidden lust, bitterness, resentment, critical spirit, unforgiveness, etc. Numbers 32:23 says, “…you have sinned against the Lord; and be sure your sin will find you out.”

God Watches Our Hearts~Part Two

Harboring an offense in our hearts makes us a stumbling block for others. How? I think Ecclesiastes 10:1 is a perfect answer. It says, “Dead flies putrefy the perfumer’s ointment, and cause it to give off a foul odor; so does a little folly to one respected for wisdom and honor.”

We hurt and offend others when we attack them through our reactionary flesh. We say things that ought not to be said. We act in a way that does not exemplify the Lord. If you want to know what is hidden in your heart ~ ask the Lord to reveal it. He loves that prayer and is faithful to fulfill it.

Caution. The hidden offense will emerge in a very unexpected time. Proverbs 4:23. We won’t even know it happened until it displays itself. It is that quick. Not premeditated, but triggered in a moment because of something that was said, we were slighted, or our goal was blocked.