Gen 8:21 & James 1:4
The Lord smelled the pleasing aroma [a soothing, satisfying scent] and the Lord said to Himself, “I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the intent (strong inclination, desire) of man’s heart is wicked from his youth; and I will never again destroy every living thing, as I have done (Gen 8:21).
And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing (James 1:4).
As Disciples of Christ, Christian Counselors, Lay-leaders, Pastors and People Helpers we often have a hard time discerning between a wicked heart and a non-believer. A lot of times we try to figure things out contingently based on the motives or intents peripherally.
But I think one of the reasons we don’t “see” evil is because some of us find it so difficult to believe that evil individuals actually exist. We can’t imagine someone deceiving us with no conscience, hurting others with no remorse, spinning outrageous fabrications to ruin someone’s reputation, or pretending he or she is spiritually committed yet has no fear of God before his or her eyes.
The Bible clearly tells us that among God’s people there are wolves that wear sheep’s clothing (Jeremiah 23:14; Titus 1:10; Revelations 2:2). It’s true that every human heart is inclined toward sin (Romans 3:23), and that includes evil (Genesis 8:21; James 1:4). We all miss God’s mark of moral perfection. However, most ordinary sinners do not happily indulge evil urges, nor do we feel good about having them. We feel ashamed and guilty, rightly so (Romans 7:19–21). These things are not true of the evil heart.
1) An evil heart craves demand and control, and surrender only to its subjective views.
A beguiled heart will manipulate Scripture to its own advantage but ignore and reject passages that shine light on discipline, self-correction and repentance.
2) An evil heart plays on the sympathy of others.
It demands mercy but gives none. Seeks forgiveness, and intimacy from those that may have been harmed with no consideration for the pain caused and no real intention of making amends for its transgressions or maligned deeds.
3) An evil heart is an expert at creating confusion and contention.
Will twist the facts, mislead, lie, avoid taking responsibility, deny reality, make up stories, and withhold information with no remorse.
4) An evil heart is notorious at fooling others with beguiling speech and flattering words.
But pause and look at the fruit, follow the words spoken and it will render no real evidence of spiritual maturity or change. The mirage effect!
5) An evil heart has no conscience or no remorse.
It delights in sin and iniquities—all the while masquerading as someone with a noble reputation.
God Bless – A Note From The Counselor’s Corner,
Dalton Kornegay, PhD
