Making wrong assumptions

It was very cold last night and the roof tiles on the building opposite my kitchen window were white with frost when I looked out this morning.  The sun was already shining on the ridge tiles though, and a jackdaw was strolling nonchalantly along.  All went well until he spied something interesting part way down the roof and hopped down to investigate.  Suddenly things were not quite what he had anticipated, and there was a good deal of slithering and wing-flapping before he regained his balance, his footing, and safety.

It’s always wise to remember that appearances can be deceptive!

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.  1 John 4:1                                                                                                   

Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour, knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts.   2 Peter 3:1-3

Psalm 19:

God’s law is perfect, and converts

The soul in sin that lies;

God’s testimony is most sure,

And makes the simple wise.

 

The statutes of the Lord are right,

And do rejoice the heart;

The Lord’s command is pure, and doth

Light to the eyes impart.

 

Unspotted is the fear of God,

And doth endure for ever;

The judgements of the Lord are true

And righteous altogether.

 

Moreover, they Thy servant warn

How he his life should frame;

A great reward provided is

For them that keep the same.

 

The words which from my mouth proceed,

The thoughts sent from my heart,

Accept, O Lord, for Thou my Strength

And my Redeemer art.

 

Scottish Psalter, 1615