SNAPPING THE TRAPS OF THE WICKED By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Isaiah 8:10
"Devise your strategy, but it will be thwarted; propose your plan, but it will not stand, for God is with us."
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INTRODUCTION
Throughout history, the wicked have often laid traps for the righteous, believing they can outsmart God and His people. However, time and time again, God has shown that He is the ultimate power who turns the schemes of the wicked upon themselves. When men conspire against His righteousness, He snaps their traps, rendering their evil plans void. This article seeks to shed light on God's supreme power in overthrowing the plans of the wicked, the consequences they face for their rebellion, and how the righteous should remain steadfast in their faith.
God sees everything. He is not blind to the sufferings of His people nor is He ignorant of the secret schemes of the wicked. The unrighteous may boast in their power, but their time of reckoning always comes. While they trust in their deceit and manipulation, they will ultimately be ensnared in their own evil devices.
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GOD SEES AND JUDGES THE WICKED
Proverbs 15:3
"The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good."
God is not indifferent to evil. He watches over the affairs of men, ensuring that the righteous are preserved while the wicked are punished. The rulers of this world who indulge in oppression, deception, and injustice may seem invincible for a time, but their actions are seen and recorded by God. When their wickedness reaches its fullness, judgment falls upon them like a mighty flood.
The downfall of Pharaoh in Egypt is a perfect example. He enslaved God's people, treated them cruelly, and refused to let them go. But God, in His righteous anger, sent plagues upon Egypt and eventually drowned Pharaoh’s army in the Red Sea. This historical event illustrates that no matter how powerful the wicked seem, they cannot withstand the judgment of God.
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THE WICKED WILL FALL INTO THEIR OWN TRAPS
Psalm 9:15
"The nations have fallen into the pit they have dug; their feet are caught in the net they have hidden."
One of God's most consistent patterns of judgment is making the wicked fall into their own traps. Those who plot evil against others eventually experience the destruction they intended for the righteous. This principle is evident in the story of Haman, who built gallows for Mordecai, only to be hanged on them himself (Esther 7:10). The wicked think they are wise, but their schemes become their own downfall.
Even today, world leaders and influential people who conspire against God’s people will not escape divine justice. They may pass unjust laws, oppress the righteous, and persecute those who stand for truth, but God will not let their wickedness go unanswered. Just as He did in biblical times, He will cause their own wicked devices to be their undoing.
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THE FOLLY OF TRUSTING IN EVIL
Job 5:12-13
"He thwarts the plans of the crafty so that their hands achieve no success. He catches the wise in their craftiness, and the schemes of the wily are swept away."
Many of the wicked in positions of power today trust in their own intelligence, wealth, and influence. They believe they can manipulate people, create deceptive narratives, and enforce ungodly agendas without consequence. However, the Bible warns that such confidence is misplaced.
History is filled with examples of rulers and authorities who trusted in their own strength only to meet a disastrous end. Nebuchadnezzar, who thought he was above God, was humbled and made to live like an animal until he acknowledged God's supremacy (Daniel 4:33-37). Those who reject God and trust in their own wicked schemes will always be brought low.
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GOD IS THE DELIVERER OF HIS PEOPLE
Exodus 14:14
"The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still."
The righteous need not fear the wicked because God is their ultimate protector and deliverer. Just as He delivered Israel from Egypt, He continues to deliver His people today. His power is not limited to ancient times—He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
When the enemy seems strong, believers must hold firm to their faith and trust that God will act at the right time. He knows the struggles of His people, and He will not let them be utterly destroyed. The deliverance of the righteous is certain because God is faithful to those who put their trust in Him.
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SUMMARY
The wicked may appear strong for a time, but their strength is temporary. God sees all their evil deeds and will bring them down in His perfect timing. He ensures that their traps become their own downfall, exposing their foolishness and punishing their rebellion. Meanwhile, the righteous are called to remain steadfast, trusting in God's deliverance.
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CONCLUSION
The traps set by the wicked will not succeed against God's people because God Himself is in control. His justice will prevail, and His people will be vindicated. Those who put their faith in wickedness will fall, but those who trust in the Lord will stand firm. As believers, we must remain unwavering in our faith, knowing that God is our shield and defender.
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CALL TO ACTION
In these times of moral decay and increasing wickedness, believers must stand boldly for righteousness. Do not be afraid of those who seem powerful, for their power is nothing compared to God’s. Instead, remain prayerful, trust in God’s timing, and continue to walk in obedience to His word.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Do not be troubled by the wickedness around you. Stay close to God, knowing that He will never forsake those who trust in Him. He will fight for you, deliver you, and ensure that the plans of the wicked are destroyed. Keep your eyes on Him and walk in faith, for He alone is your stronghold in times of trouble.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, now is the time. Pray this prayer with sincerity:
"Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your mercy. I repent of my sins and ask You to cleanse me. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again for my salvation. Today, I surrender my life to You. Come into my heart and be my Lord and Savior. Thank You for Your grace and love. In Jesus' name, Amen."
If you have prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of God! Stay in His word, pray daily, and seek fellowship with other believers. God bless you!
