RE: Hidden evil: Bad thoughts can be more grievous than bad acts
Matthew 10:16 "Look, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves."
I constantly try to anticipate what evil someone may do towards me, from innocent manipulation or positioning to a tactical disadvantage to downright horror scenarios.
If God counted whatever dark thought creeps in my mind it would be an extremely long list. I pray for forgiveness from God when I catch myself contemplating evil. But, evil sometimes creeps in... As long as we live in the flesh sin will follow us - but if we have faith in Jesus it will never overcome us.
I was in a very dark place in my mind when I turned to Jesus for the first time and I just called his name, I barely knew the bible, and he changed my heart. He knows me and you, he knows us better than we know ourselves and I would bet my life - he will save any man or woman from sin if only we call out to him for help.
Yes, it is. When we humble ourselves before God, He welcomes us to be part of His family. Being part means being work in progress. Praise God!
Thanks! I agree. God bless you :)