7-Day Devotional: “Who Is a Stranger?” | Day 1: Proximity ≠ Loyalty*

 

7-Day Devotional: “Who Is a Stranger?” | Day 1: Proximity ≠ Loyalty*  

Scripture: 

1 Kings 3:18 (NKJV) – “And it came to pass, on the third day after I was delivered, that this woman was delivered also. And we were together; there was no stranger with us in the house, only the two of us.”  

Being physically close to someone does not guarantee their loyalty or spiritual alignment with you. The two women in 1 Kings 3 shared the same roof, the same daily rhythms, and even the sacred experience of childbirth—yet one harbored a deadly deception. She waited until the other slept, then swapped the living child for the dead. This teaches us that familiarity can mask betrayal. Many walk with us in church, business, or family—but their hearts may be far from God and far from our best interest.  

Don’t mistake presence for protection. True fellowship is rooted in shared values, integrity, and godly character—not just shared space. Ask the Lord to give you spiritual eyes to see beyond surface-level relationships.  

Application: 

Reflect on your closest relationships. Are there inconsistencies between words and actions? Pray for clarity, not suspicion.  

Closing Prayer:  

Lord, You see every heart. Where I have assumed loyalty because of proximity, correct my eyes. Surround me with people whose presence honors You and uplifts my destiny. In Jesus’ name, Amen.  

By Reverend TD Kasuku