Listen to today’s devo!

In this matter no one should wrong or take advantage of a brother or sister. (1 Thess. 4:6)

Expanded Passage: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-6

When a young child discovers the word “mine” it is like a whole new world opens. They don’t just say “mine” when referring to things that belong to them. They also start to claim things they want which may not be theirs. They may take someone else’s toy and when asked to give it back say “mine!” Usually once they classify something as “mine” it then becomes difficult to get them to let go of it, with little notice of who they upset or inconvenience. Their excitement over claiming more and more as their own compels them to continue. The young child, convinced that what they are calling “mine” belongs to them, will usually cry or throw a tantrum if the object is taken.

Sin can have the same blinkered effect on a believer, causing that individual to think that they can have what they want without repercussions. The truth is that once someone becomes entangled in sin their desire for self-gratification increases. That individual then runs the risk of harming a brother or sister by taking what does not belong to them. Therefore, as followers of Christ, we should make every effort to abstain from sin and to be mindful of how our behavior may affect others.

Treat others in a way that testifies your love for God.

Olivia Isra’el is a wife, mother, and a CBT therapist who enjoys writing. She is grateful to convey the love of God through text.

© 2026 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.