WISDOM AND DISCERNMENT
Essential For Navigating 2026
Matthew 10:16 (KJV) 6 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.
I have been watching documentaries on the latest scams being perpetrated on the internet. The scams are very elaborate and if you do not have discernment, it is possible to become a victim. These scams prey particularly on the elderly who tend not to be as computer savvy as the younger generation.
I can recall an alert go off on my computer when I ventured onto the wrong website due to a typo. A loud alarm sounded, and flashing lights and bold red writing appeared. It stated my computer had been hacked and I should call a certain number immediately to have the matter resolved. I called my son instead. The alert is so startling that I could understand someone calling the number. The goal of the scammer is to walk you through a series of steps that will allow them to gain access to your computer and your personal information.
Another prevalent scam is one where someone starts a romantic relationship with a potential victim. After a while, they begin asking for money to resolve a myriad of supposed personal financial problems. They prey upon the sympathy of their victims to get them to send money. Many people have sent money to fake profiles being used by these scammers. They prey particularly on the older generation. People who are recently divorced, lost a spouse, are lonely and unsuspecting. Once someone starts asking for money that should be a cause for concern. The love of money has caused many to set aside their conscience and do whatever it takes to scam others.
In 2026 with all the advances in AI; the ability to duplicate a person’s voice and even create totally fake profiles, we have to exercise wisdom in order to not fall prey to these scams. With God’s guidance we can be aware of traps and snares and avoid them.
May God grant you all the wisdom and discernment you will need in 2026 to have a prosperous and wonderful year.