Potsherd (Part 1 of 4)- Deception

Proverbs 26:23 KJV

Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.

Burning Lips; fervent lips in some translations

Potsherd- broken earthen vessel;  broken piece of pottery

Dross- impurities, waste, worthless matter, scum or  from the melting process of metals

Likened to a piece of pottery covered with silver to mask the brokenness and impurities by which it is truly covered.

This describes one whose words are brought forth with affection, passion, zeal and burn with love, sincerity and the like however, inwardly harboring wickedness in their hearts.  They may speak as if they have the best interest of you and others in mind, saying one thing but, really meaning another.  Their words are the beautiful silver glaze used to cover wickedness.  Whether done intentionally or not, this is deception.

Judas is a great example on how outward appearance can be deceptive.  One can put on a facade appearing to be holy and righteous, using religion to intentionally cover the wickedness that lies within. 

In the book of John, Judas comes across as caring about the poor when in reality he wanted to sale the ointment and take the money for himself.

John 12:5-6 NKJV

5 “Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” 6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it.

In the book of Luke, Judas betrays Jesus with a kiss.

Luke 22:47-48 NKJV

47 And while He was still speaking, behold, a multitude; and he who was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them and drew near to Jesus to kiss Him. 48 But Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”

There is no shortage of deception and those who intentionally look to deceive you are quite adept at what they do.  Some will say anything to get you to partner with them so be very careful what and who you endorse. Be wise and discerning, study the word of God (being a hearer and doer of the word) and spend quality time with God.  Remember, Satan and his ministers often appear to be righteous to cover what he really does; kill, steal and destroy. 

II Corinthians 11:14-15 NKJV

14 And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works.

Watch your doctrine.  Evil will increase as well as imposters.  Be led by the Holy Spirit and inspect the fruit of their lives for you truly will recognize them by their fruit.

II Timothy 2:3 NKJV

But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.

Matthew 7:15-20 NKJV

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.

Romans 16:17-18 NKJV

Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. 18 For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple.