Let me begin with a question: Are you on the verge of a lapse in judgment?

I hope the answer is no—but it’s still a wise question to ask, because Scripture gives sobering examples of good and faithful people who suddenly found themselves making a major lapse in judgment with real consequences.

One example is Gehazi, the servant of the prophet Elisha. Everything we read about him early on suggests he was a loyal and helpful assistant. Gehazi was present when Elisha blessed the Shunammite woman with a son, and he played a constructive role when Elisha later restored that son to life (2 Kings 4:8–37). From these accounts, it is clear Gehazi had been a trusted servant working closely with a man of God.

But in 2 Kings 5, during the healing of Naaman the Syrian general, Gehazi’s judgment faltered. After Naaman was miraculously healed of leprosy, he offered Elisha a generous gift. Elisha refused. Yet Gehazi secretly chased after Naaman, fabricated a story that Elisha had changed his mind, and requested two talents of silver and two changes of garments for himself.

Elisha, guided by God’s spirit, saw through the deception. As a result, he pronounced a judgment: the leprosy that had been removed from Naaman would now cling to Gehazi and his descendants. What began as a moment of greed—a seemingly small lapse—became a life-altering consequence.

Gehazi is not alone. Scripture records lapses in judgment from David, Samson, Miriam, Moses, Ananias and Sapphira, and many others. These examples are written for our learning.

And the truth is: every one of us has had moments where our judgment slips.

So the real question becomes: How can we avoid a lapse in judgment like Gehazi?

First, we must acknowledge that anyone is capable of stumbling—especially at the very moment we feel secure. Paul warns the Corinthians:

“Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” (1 Corinthians 10:12)

Overconfidence in our spiritual firmness is dangerous. We can become vulnerable precisely when we believe we are unshakable.

Peter gives similar counsel:

“Be sober-minded, be alert. Your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)

The key to remaining sober-minded appears just a few verses earlier:

“Be clothed with humility, for

God resists the proud,

but gives grace to the humble.

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God… casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:5–7)

Pride is often the root behind lapses in judgment. When pride creeps in, we distance ourselves from God’s guidance. Our thinking becomes clouded. Our defenses weaken. And like Gehazi, we become susceptible to a “bad idea” that would normally never take root.

The lesson is simple but crucial:

Never assume we stand so firmly that we cannot fall. Stay humble. Stay close to God. Seek His wisdom and guidance.

He alone provides sound judgment, discernment, and awareness of our own weaknesses.

As we are blessed to enter another weekly Sabbath, let’s take time to appreciate the truth and guidance found in God’s word, which lead us to understanding, wisdom, and spiritual growth.