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Is that a threat or a promise?

Being the mom of 2 teenage boys, we have had our share of sarcasm and humor.  One of the corny things I am sure we all have heard is when someone says something they are going to do and the other guy asks "Is that a threat?"  The answer, according to their humor is "No, that's a promise!"

I was reminded of that today when a friend, knowing I am going through a trying time with some unethical individuals, sent me the following verse: The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of the wicked is snuffed out. Proverbs 13:9 

To those of us who live our lives for Christ, that verse offers us the assurance that our light is shining,,, even when we can't see it ourselves.... even when we don't realize our perserverence is a testimony to those around us who are watching our lives.

But consider, for a moment, those who are being warned in that verse.  The lamp will be snuffed out.  No, it is not our job.  Realistically, we should not even pray for the downfall of our enemies.  When we truly surrender our lives to Christ, we hurt for them.  The threat is NOT from us but from the consequences of their wicked deeds.  Yes, sometimes the lamp shines and looks like our light. It may even fool some people into believing it is a light.  But thankfully, we are not God!  Our job is just to make sure we stay righteous before God!

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