Kicking a Hornet’s Nest

Opening Verse

“He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.”
— Proverbs 11:29 (KJV)

Introduction

Some actions stir up trouble far beyond what we expect. Much like kicking a hornet’s nest, meddling with things that should be left alone can bring unnecessary pain and chaos. Many times, we ignore warnings from God and push forward, thinking we are in control—only to find ourselves surrounded by the consequences of our own recklessness.

Devotional Story

A man walked through the woods on a quiet afternoon, enjoying the peace around him. He noticed a large hornet’s nest hanging from a tree. Curiosity got the best of him, and he picked up a rock. Without much thought, he threw it hard at the nest.

At first, nothing happened. Then, a faint buzzing grew louder. Within seconds, a swarm of angry hornets burst from the nest, heading straight for him. He ran, flailing his arms, but it was too late. The stings came one after another, leaving him in agony. What was once a peaceful walk turned into a painful lesson in foolishness.

Much like this man, many people ignore God’s warnings in life. They meddle in sin, thinking they can handle the consequences. They stir up strife in their homes, involve themselves in gossip, or entertain sinful habits—only to reap a whirlwind of destruction. The Bible warns that those who “trouble their own house” will inherit the wind. In other words, their actions will lead to emptiness, regret, and pain.

What This Means

God gives us wisdom to avoid unnecessary pain. He warns us through His Word, through godly counsel, and even through the quiet nudging of the Holy Spirit. Yet, some still choose to play with sin, believing they are immune to its consequences. But sin is like a nest of hornets—you might think you can get away with disturbing it, but eventually, you will get stung.

We must be wise and discerning, avoiding situations that invite trouble into our lives. Instead of stirring up strife, we should seek peace. Instead of entertaining sin, we should pursue righteousness.

Think About This

• Are there areas in your life where you are ignoring God’s warnings?
• Have you been stirring up trouble in your home, workplace, or relationships?
• What steps can you take to walk in wisdom and avoid unnecessary pain?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, give me wisdom to avoid the traps of foolishness and sin. Help me to recognize when I am stirring up trouble in my life and give me the strength to walk away from temptation. Teach me to be a peacemaker and not a troublemaker. Let me seek righteousness and wisdom in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”
— Galatians 6:7 (KJV)