Introductory Thoughts
Unfortunately, many people are deceived into thinking that guilt is only the burden of those who personally commit sin. The reality is that consenting to wickedness is equally as bad as personally committing the sin. According to the fiftieth Psalm, it is the wicked (Psalm 50:16) who “sawest a thief” and “consentedst with him” (Psalm 50:18). According to Proverbs 29:24, “Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul.” By comparison with the latter part of Proverbs 29:24, it appears that partnering with a thief occurs when one witnesses another individual stealing and remains silent. It is not enough to close one’s eyes and hide in the presence of wickedness. It must be condemned.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Consent means to agree with. We are not to consent to any sin (Proverbs 1:10). Jacob consented to his mothers evil plan to steal Esaus blessing in Genesis chapter 27. Ahab consented to Jezebels plan to steal Naboths vineyard. (Read First Kings chapter 21.)
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(For everyone): Have you witnessed others stealing and chosen to remain silent? Are you willing to bear the guilt for their sin? What steps should you take to make something right?
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Have you partnered with thieves? Have you consented unto theft? Have you hurt your own testimony by not confronting the one who stole?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to give you the boldness to do right.
- Ask the Lord to forgive you for not taking a stand in times past.
Song
LIVING FOR CHRIST
