SHE WAS THE PREY

12/07/25

Christian Treasures, Daily Devotions

Topic: SHE WAS THE PREY

Anchor Scripture: Jeremiah 17:9 KJV

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?”

Welcome to Christian Treasures. May you be blessed as you read, in Jesus' name. Amen.

A story was shared about a woman who kept a snake as a pet. One day, she noticed that her pet had stopped eating, so she took it to the vet. After a thorough examination, the vet informed her that the snake was physically fine. Curious, she asked, “Why has it stopped eating?”

The vet replied, “Let me ask you a few questions. Have you noticed any strange behavior apart from the lack of eating?” Her expression changed slightly as she recalled that for about a week, the snake had often stretched itself as if trying to measure its length against hers while they slept on the same bed.

Then the vet revealed, “Yes, snakes often stop eating for a time when they are preparing to consume a large prey. The stretching is part of how they enlarge their stomachs in anticipation of a meal.” This was quite alarming, and one can only imagine how the woman reacted.

Our anchor scripture speaks about the deceitfulness of the heart. It can be challenging to discern those who harbor wicked intentions because they can be very deceptive. This is why Matthew 10:36 (NIV) states, “A man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.” For the purpose of this devotion, “household” refers to friends, acquaintances, family, and colleagues—people close enough to hurt you without concern.

The Bible also warns us in Proverbs 23:6 about those who offer you food but do not mean it genuinely; they lack sincerity. "Food" in this context could represent favors, gifts, and other gestures that, when given grudgingly, can bring negative consequences because they are not offered with a pure heart.

LESSONS FOR TODAY:

1. Hearts are deceptive.

2. Not everyone should be trusted.

REFLECTION: Take a moment to prayerfully reflect on today’s devotion and ask God to deliver you from secret enemies who may be driven by envy, bitterness, or rivalry. May the Lord grant you understanding in all things, in Jesus' name. Amen.

PRAYER:

Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of your son Jesus Christ. We ask that you deliver us from every temptation that arises from deceptive hearts, in Jesus' name. Amen.

More Bible Scriptures:

Proverbs 4:23, Isaiah 26:3, Romans 8:18