“The simple believes every word, but the prudent considers well his steps.”—Proverbs 14:15 NKJV

Every day we are assaulted with some form of deception: emails or text messages with deceptive claims, and plausible stories concocted in attempts to accomplish something illegal, immoral, or unbiblical. Others have been deceived into buying products that sound too good to be true, following politicians with views that seem credible, and believing teachers who promise results that sound desirable but don’t work and lead them astray. This is why we need to heed the words of the Bible, be prudent, and not simply believe everything we hear. The Bible encourages us to be careful whom we trust. The information we hear in this world may seem credible. And they may use this information to try to encourage us to buy something, go somewhere, vote for someone, or take some other action. We need look no further than the example of Adam and Eve who allowed the deceptive words of the serpent to change their attitude about God, define their beliefs, and shape their lives. The consequences could not have been more dramatic. This is why we need to heed the warnings in the Bible. Realize the dangers of being gullible, trusting people and products without checking their backgrounds, and believing whatever we hear just because it sounds plausible. Be on guard against deception. Be spiritually sensitive, guided by biblical principles and the discernment of the Spirit.

Reflection Question: When have you been tempted not to see if something was from God?

“Bless the LORD, O my soul … forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction … Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”—Psalm 103:1–5 NKJV

David’s heart overflowed with thanks and praise. When he realized all God had done for him, he could not help but bless His holy name! David knew that God does not just heal some of our diseases. He heals all of them! God does not just forgive some iniquities, but all of them! We do not serve a God who does things halfway. He is a God of complete and total healing, forgiveness, and power! And nothing is too difficult for Him. No matter what we have done, or what problems we might have, we need to think about what God has done in our lives. We need to meditate on His greatness and His power. We need to remember that He is ready to forgive us. He is ready to take away all our burdens. If we have any sickness, addictions, or infirmities, we can cry out to God. He is the God who “heals all your diseases.” He is available to redeem our lives from destruction, crown us with lovingkindness and tender mercies, and satisfy our mouths with good things. And He is ready to renew our lives so that our youth is renewed like the eagles. He is ready to hear our prayer, so may we call on Him with boldness and confidence. May we not forget to give Him the praise that is due His name. He is worthy!

Reflection Question: What godly benefits are you most thankful for today?