Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing

“Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves.” Matthew 7:15 NLT

Some time ago, during a time of prayer and fasting, I distinctly recall a warning. The above verse – a warning to beware of the wolves who come in sheep’s clothing. In fact, it was also confirmed by several sources…

And allow me to say, the ravenous wolves have most certainly approached under the guise as being sheep, but it didn’t take long to see them for who they truly are.

“Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them.” Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I had read something, somewhere – maybe one of your blogs – that said something akin to, we really find out someone’s intentions the less we say, the more we listen.

“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”” Matthew‬ ‭12‬:‭36‬-‭37‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I’m learning to shut my mouth and listen to what’s being said. I’m learning to stop filling in the blanks and listen to what I’m being told. So much is communicated in body language, tone, actions – not just words. In fact, I’ve come to realize, far too often, words contradict actions. I don’t want to be like that, personally.

One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned from Jesus Christ, and His time spent walking this earth, is that He didn’t waste His words. He had nothing to prove. He didn’t have to answer the questions of the “religious” folks of the time, who didn’t know Him. He didn’t have to prove that He is the Son of God, or by what authority He healed the sick, opened blind eyes, cast out devils, etc…

No, when Jesus opened His mouth, He spoke with authority. His words had meaning – they had power. They still have power…

As I’ve been in prayer about some things in my personal life, I’ve met several wolves in sheep’s clothing along the way, threatening to deter me from the path set before me. I’m thankful for discernment. I’m thankful that the Holy Spirit is there to guide me. I’m thankful that we don’t have to face anything, or make any decisions, on our own. If that were the case, I would have surely been devoured by the ravenous wolves.

If I never understood it before, I clearly understand now, the importance of knowing God for myself, the importance of having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. I understand the power of prayer and the unfailing love of Jesus Christ.