How to Know a Wicked Person

Today's Thoughts

Friday, June 21, 2024  ·  By Bishop Samson Amajene

Text: Psalm 73:3, 6–9, 18–20 (NIV)

Topic: How to Know a Wicked Person

"For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked… Therefore pride is their necklace; they clothe themselves with violence. From their callous hearts comes iniquity; their evil imaginations have no limits. They scoff, and speak with malice; with arrogance they threaten oppression. Their mouths lay claim to heaven, and their tongues take possession of the earth… Surely you place them on slippery ground; you cast them down to ruin. How suddenly are they destroyed, completely swept away by terrors! They are like a dream when one awakes; when you arise, Lord, you will despise them as fantasies." — Psalm 73:3, 6–9, 18–20 (NIV)

Bishop Samson Amajene shared profound insights on identifying the wicked, drawn from Psalm 73. The Scriptures illuminate the characteristics of the wicked — highlighting their pride, violence, iniquity, and arrogance. These individuals speak with malice, threaten oppression, and claim ownership over worldly possessions, only to meet an inevitable downfall, akin to a fleeting dream in the eyes of the Lord.

Exploring the Hebrew word for "wicked" (ra' / rā'āh), Bishop Amajene emphasized their deliberate disobedience toward God — akin to their master, the Devil. Their darkness and sin are fueled by a refusal to acknowledge divine truth, leading them to harm the righteous without cause, embodying transgression and sin.

Bishop Amajene highlighted key characteristics that define the wicked:

• Utilization of wrongful means for advancement, disregarding God's ordained processes.
• Association with evil entities, leading to prosperity tainted by malevolence.
• Engagement in sacrificial acts and rituals for material gain.
• Participation in occult practices for wealth accumulation.
• Exploitation of others through robbery and corruption.
• Pursuit of wealth devoid of morality or ethical standards.
• Disdain for the success of others.
• Operation without a moral compass or guiding principles.
• Preference for control over empowerment in interactions.
• Succumbing to insatiable desires and a lust for power.

By shedding light on these characteristics, Bishop Amajene warns against the destructive influence of the wicked on society and individuals. He emphasizes the importance of upholding righteousness, integrity, and divine principles in all aspects of life — guided by moral clarity and ethical standards.

These reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the significance of righteousness and ethical conduct in navigating life's challenges. May we strive for moral excellence and integrity in all our actions and decisions.