“Wild waves of the sea, casting up the foam of their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever.” – Jude 13

Scripture reading: Philippians 4:6-9; Jude 12-13

After describing false teachers as waterless clouds, Jude now describes them as “wild waves” and “wandering stars.” These metaphors are the opposite of a peaceful afternoon gazing up at the sky. They are signals of turbulence, aimlessness and, sadly, destruction. Wild waves of the sea crash repeatedly against the rocks, churning up foam and tremendous noise as they wage their battle. But the water always recedes back into the sea. Similarly, wandering stars, like meteorites, streak across the sky with incredible speed and brilliant light, but they burn up in the atmosphere or crash into the ground.

If we deceive ourselves into thinking that a life of sin is more fruitful, we use up a lot of energy making excuses for our actions. When godly friends warn us of the shame of our actions, we quickly become agitated and find ways to shame them so that we don’t feel as badly about ourselves. And when God’s Word in the hand of a brother or sister warns us of the eternal consequences of an unconverted heart, we angrily tell them to shut their Bibles.

Lay yourself in humility at the feet of the Saviour today and confess any pride that refuses to repent of the sins you love too much. Unlike waves returning to the sea, or meteorites burning up in the sky, prayers of repentance will not be futile when they come to the ears of our gracious Father.

Suggestions for prayer

Ask the Lord to open your eyes to see the shame and the futility of your sins. Pray that the Spirit would continue your daily conversion in the dying away of the old self and the coming to life of the new.

Pastor James Sinke has been the pastor of Bethel URC of Woodstock for ten years, having previously served the Rock Valley URC. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. It is also available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.