THE LIVING WATER (January-December, 2026)

DATE:

Monday, 20th April, 2026

TOPIC:

BEWARE OF SPIRITUAL CROCODILES (IV)

MEMORISE

Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves (Matthew 7:15).

READ:

Matthew 7:15-20

[15]. “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.

[16]. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?

[17]. Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.

[18]. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit.

[19]. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.

[20]. Therefore by their fruits you will know them.

EXPOSITION

In life, we are often cautioned to be careful of hidden dangers. The Bible also warns us about spiritual dangers that may not be immediately visible. One of such dangers is the “spiritual crocodile.” Like crocodiles, spiritual dangers such as false teachings and deceptive leaders often hide under the guise of righteousness and truth. These “spiritual crocodiles” can deceive unsuspecting believers by appearing harmless, even godly, but their true nature is destructive.

Jesus warns us to be on guard against false prophets who disguise themselves as harmless but inwardly seek to destroy (Matt. 7:15). Just like a crocodile lurking beneath the water surface, these spiritual predators may seem good at first but cause great harm when we least expect it. We must be vigilant, discerning and grounded in God’s Word to avoid falling prey to such spiritual predators. As believers, we are called to be discerning and to test every spirit and doctrine against the Word of God. Stay vigilant and anchored in the truth!

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, grant me the spirit of discernment to recognize and avoid spiritual predators in my life.

2. Father, help me to stay rooted in Your Word and to be led by Your Spirit in all areas of my life.

3. Lord, protect our churches from deceptive teachings and give us wisdom to follow only those who lead us closer to You.

SUGGESTED HYMN FOR TODAY:

CACGHB: 768

7 7 7 3

1. Christian! Seek not yet repose,

Hear thy guardian angel say.

Thou art in the midst of foes:

Watch and pray.

2. Principalities and powers,

Must’ ring their unseen array,

Wait for thy unguarded hour:

Watch and pray.

3. Gird thy heavenly armour on;

Wear it ever, night and day;

Ambushed lies the evil one:

Watch and pray.

4. Hear the victors who o’ ercame;

Still they mark each warrior’s way

All with one consent exclaim,

Watch and pray

5. Hear, above all, hear thy Lord,

Him thou lovest to obey;

Hide within thy heart His word:

Watch and pray.

6. Watch, as if on that alone

Hung the issued of the day;

Pray, that help may be sent down;

Watch and pray

Amen