“The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin.” – Proverbs 10:14
Cunning in a Good Way
As we explore the topic of being cunning within a biblical context, we understand that not all cunning is negative. Being wise and shrewd can be admirable when it leads to good outcomes. We should aim to be wise like the prudent servant who prepares well for the future, staying alert to opportunities that come our way. This type of cunning relies on insight and cleverness aligned with God’s teachings, allowing us to navigate life with wisdom and grace.
Proverbs 12:16
“Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult.” – Proverbs 12:16
Matthew 10:16
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” – Matthew 10:16
Proverbs 22:3
“The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” – Proverbs 22:3
Ecclesiastes 7:12
“Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: wisdom preserves those who have it.” – Ecclesiastes 7:12
1 Chronicles 12:32
“From Issachar, men who understood the times and knew what Israel should do—200 chiefs, with all their relatives under their command.” – 1 Chronicles 12:32
The Downside of Cunning
While there is value in skillful cunning, we should be cautious of using cunning for deception or manipulation. When we act with cunning in a negative way, we can lead ourselves and others astray. It is crucial that our cunning reflects honesty and integrity, following the path illuminated by Christ. Although we might be tempted to manipulate situations for personal gain, we remind each other of the importance of righteousness and love in all our actions.
Proverbs 26:24
“Enemies disguise themselves with their lips, but in their hearts they harbor deceit.” – Proverbs 26:24
Psalm 10:7
“His mouth is full of lies and threats; trouble and evil are under his tongue.” – Psalm 10:7
Proverbs 12:17
“An honest witness tells the truth, but a false witness tells lies.” – Proverbs 12:17
Proverbs 11:3
“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them.” – Proverbs 11:3
Ephesians 4:25
“Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” – Ephesians 4:25
Seeking God’s Wisdom
In our quest for cunning, we should continuously seek God’s wisdom. When we are guided by His word, our decisions become more aligned with His will. This involves spending time in prayer, studying the scriptures, and listening to His voice. As we seek Him, our cunning will be shaped by love, truth, and righteousness. We grow in our ability to discern right from wrong, enabling us to apply our cunning positively while respecting God’s command.
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Proverbs 2:6
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6
Isaiah 11:2
“The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord.” – Isaiah 11:2
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom.” – Colossians 3:16
Using Our Cunning for Good
As we continue to develop our cunning, we are encouraged to use it for the good of others and the expansion of God’s kingdom. Our skills can be beneficial when we take our unique abilities and align them with God’s purpose. We are called to serve and love others, using our cunning in ways that enable us to share blessings, encourage friendships, and lift others up. By being shrewd in our actions, we can make a positive impact in our communities.
Matthew 5:14
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” – Matthew 5:14
Proverbs 3:27
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” – Proverbs 3:27
Galatians 6:10
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” – Galatians 6:10
Philippians 2:4
“Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:4
Matthew 25:40
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'” – Matthew 25:40
Guarding Against Evil Cunning
Lastly, we must remain vigilant against the evil cunning that can lead us away from God’s path. Deception, lies, and manipulation are often rooted in cunning behavior that diverges from God’s way. By being aware of these tactics, we can protect ourselves and others from harm. We learn to discern when someone is trying to deceive us and resist any temptations to act in ways that are dishonest or malicious.
Proverbs 24:1-2
“Do not envy the wicked, do not desire their company; for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble.” – Proverbs 24:1-2
Colossians 2:8
“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.” – Colossians 2:8
Proverbs 10:9
“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” – Proverbs 10:9
Jeremiah 17:9
“The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” – Jeremiah 17:9
Matthew 7:15
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” – Matthew 7:15
Faith in the Face of Cunning
As we reflect on the idea of being cunning, we must remember to place our faith in God above all. No matter what cunning tactics others may employ against us, we find strength through our relationship with God. Our fortitude comes from knowing He is with us, guiding us and opening our eyes to truth. We put our trust in His protection, establishing a foundation built on faith rather than fear.
Psalm 25:2
“I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me.” – Psalm 25:2
Isaiah 40:29
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” – Isaiah 40:29
1 Peter 5:8-9
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith.” – 1 Peter 5:8-9
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
Isaiah 54:17
“No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you.” – Isaiah 54:17
Final Thoughts
As we have explored the verses about being cunning, we discovered a spectrum of cunning behavior. While we can be wise and shrewd, we must use our cunning for good, building up our community instead of tearing it down. Our journey is shaped by seeking God’s guidance and wisdom, aligning our actions with His love and truth.
We are reminded that cunning has its place when directed towards righteousness and the well-being of others. Those moments when we face deceit and harmful cunning should prompt us to cover ourselves in faith, knowing that God shields us with His truth.
Let us keep our hearts pure, our actions loving, and our minds focused on what is good. Together, we can explore more related topics such as lies and deception or liars and cheaters.