The Bible warns us about the existence of evil and wicked individuals who prey on the kindness of others. These individuals, often driven by a sense of entitlement, use manipulation and deceit to exploit the good nature of those around them. In this sermon, we will explore the biblical perspective on this issue, highlighting few examples of how wicked people abuse kindness and exploit others.
The Entitlement Mindset
Wicked individuals often possess an entitled mindset, believing they deserve special treatment and attention. They feel justified in using others to achieve their own ends, disregarding the harm they cause. Proverbs 21:24 says, "The proud and haughty man, scoffer is his name, acts with arrogant pride." This verse describes the arrogant attitude of those who believe they are above the rules and can manipulate others to get what they want.
Examples of Exploitation
1. *The Manipulative Friend*
Wicked individuals often befriend kind-hearted people, gaining their trust and exploiting their generosity. They use emotional manipulation, playing on the other person's empathy and compassion. Proverbs 26:24-25 warns, "Whoever hates disguises it with his lips and harbors deceit in his heart; when he speaks kindly, do not believe him, for there are seven abominations in his heart."
2. The Entitled Family Member
Some family members feel entitled to support and assistance, taking advantage of their relatives' kindness and generosity. They may create drama and guilt-trip others into providing for their needs, disregarding their own responsibilities. Proverbs 22:7 says, "The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender."
3. The Fake Repentant
Wicked individuals may feign repentance, using their supposed change of heart to gain forgiveness and trust. However, their intentions are often rooted in manipulation rather than genuine remorse. Matthew 7:15-16 warns, "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits."
4. The Victim Card
Some individuals play the victim, exaggerating or fabricating stories to elicit sympathy and support. They use their supposed suffering to manipulate others into providing them with attention, money, or resources. Psalm 109:4 says, "In return for my love they accuse me, but I give myself to prayer."
5. The Emotional Puppeteer
Wicked individuals often use emotional manipulation to control others, creating drama and turmoil to get their way. They may use guilt, anger, or self-pity to dictate the actions of those around them. Proverbs 6:12-13 says, "A worthless person, a wicked man, walks with crooked mouth, winks with his eyes, signals with his feet, makes signs with his fingers."
6. The Help Vampire
Some individuals constantly seek help and support, draining the energy and resources of those around them. They show no intention of reciprocating or taking responsibility for their own lives. 2 Thessalonians 3:10 says, "For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: 'The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.'"
7. The Gaslighter
Wicked individuals may use gaslighting tactics to manipulate others, distorting reality and making them question their own sanity. They deny previous agreements or conversations, making the other person doubt their own perceptions. Proverbs 12:17 says, "Whoever speaks the truth gives honest evidence, but a false witness utters deceit."
8. The User
Some individuals use others for their own gain, disregarding the harm they cause. They may use people for financial support, emotional validation, or personal advancement. Proverbs 29:24 says, "Whoever shares with a thief hates his own life; he hears the curse, but discloses nothing."
9. The Charmer
Wicked individuals often present themselves as charming and charismatic, using their charm to gain trust and manipulate others. However, beneath their charming exterior lies a heart of deceit. Proverbs 2:16-17 says, "So you will be delivered from the forbidden woman, from the adulteress with her smooth words, who forsakes the companion of her youth and forgets the covenant of her God."
10. The Backstabber
Some individuals pretend to be friendly and supportive, while secretly working against others. They may spread rumors, sabotage plans, or undermine relationships, all while maintaining a facade of innocence. Psalm 41:9 says, "Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me."
The Bible warns us about the existence of wicked individuals who exploit the kindness of others. These individuals are driven by a sense of entitlement and a desire to manipulate and control. As believers, we must be aware of their tactics and be wise in our interactions with others. We must also be prepared to set boundaries and protect ourselves from those who seek to harm us.
Let us remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 10:16, "Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves." May we be wise and discerning, recognizing the tactics of the wicked, and may we respond with kindness, compassion, and wisdom.
