7-Day Devotional: “Who Is a Stranger?” | Day 2 : The Danger Within

 

7-Day Devotional: “Who Is a Stranger?” | Day 2 : The Danger Within  

Scripture: 

John 13:21 (NKJV) – “When Jesus had said these things, He was troubled in spirit, and testified and said, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.’”  

The most painful betrayals often come from those we trust most. Judas wasn’t an outsider—he was one of the Twelve. He carried the money bag (John 12:6), walked with Jesus daily, and even shared the Last Supper. Yet his heart was already sold to greed and deception. Jesus knew. The disciples didn’t.  

This reveals a sobering truth: evil doesn’t always announce itself with horns and fire. Sometimes, it wears a smile, quotes Scripture, and sits in your inner circle. That’s why Jesus warned, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing…” (Matthew 7:15).  

Don’t be naive. Trust must be earned through consistent fruit—not just position or performance.  

Application: 

Examine your spiritual community. Are there individuals whose influence leaves you drained, confused, or distanced from God? Bring them before the Lord in prayer—not accusation, but discernment.  

Closing Prayer:  

Father, expose every hidden agenda near me. Give me the wisdom of Jesus—to love without being naive, and to trust without forfeiting discernment. In Jesus’ name, Amen.  

By Reverend TD Kasuku