Gullible
<<naïve>>
Because a gullible person is unduly trusting, they are easily fooled and taken advantage of. “A simple man believes anything, but a prudent man gives thought to his steps” (Prov 14:15). Joshua and his officials were duped by deception when they believed the fabricated evidence of the Gibeonites without “inquiring of the Lord” (Josh 9:3-19).
While we should be able to trust people are telling the truth, do not overlook any witness within your spirit to the contrary. We should cultivate a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit so He can communicate with us at all times, keeping us from such disasters. Jesus said, “Do not believe me unless I do what my Father does” (Jn 10:37,38). He was saying ‘look at the evidence – isn’t what I am doing the kind of things God would do?’
Christians should not be gullible but discerning
teaching and principles of Scripture (Col 2:4). Be discerning so you know what is of God and what isn’t (1 Jn 4:1).
Jesus said, in the last days when people say, “Look here is the Christ” – do not believe it, for His coming will be instantaneous and there will be numerous deceivers abroad (Mt 24:23-26).
See also: advantage, deception, discernment, false teaching, trust, vulnerable.