inviting evil to return upon yourself

W. Austin Gardner • May 28, 2022

Their loyalty was not to David but to their own personal advantage. When you accept evil men who have done evil for your advantage, you invite evil to return upon you by these same men; for “they who would do a mean trick for us would not hesitate to do a mean trick against us” (Joseph Parker).

John G. Butler, David: The King of Israel , vol. Number Fifteen, Bible Biography Series (Clinton, IA: LBC Publications, 1998), 512.

A gloomy Christian is a contradiction. It suggests a false profession or a very flimsy faith. Of course, there are trials and tears for the faithful saint, but to be gloomy all the time is hardly a true commentary of the faith in Christ which the Bible speaks about.

John G. Butler, David: The King of Israel , vol. Number Fifteen, Bible Biography Series (Clinton, IA: LBC Publications, 1998), 532.

Leading From the Inside Out (Biblical Clarity for Ministry Leaders)

By Austin Gardner • February 24, 2026
Biblical clarity for ministry leaders. Learn why internal alignment matters more than external success. 50+ years of ministry wisdom from Austin Gardner.

The Freedom of 'No': Why Biblical Contentment is a Leader's Greatest Shield

By Austin Gardner • February 23, 2026
Elisha asked for a double portion of Elijah's spirit—but why? W. Austin Gardner explores the tension between bold faith and hidden pride in ministry leadership.

Obey from the Heart (2 Kings 10:31): The Danger of Halfhearted Obedience

By Austin Gardner • February 22, 2026
W. Austin Gardner explores the cautionary tale of Jehu in 2 Kings 10:31. Are you obeying with your whole heart, or just your hands? Discover the freedom of full surrender.

Lord, If You're Taking Requests (The Great Fly Exodus)

By Austin Gardner • February 21, 2026
Why did God clear Pharaoh's flies instantly but leave Austin Gardner's? Explore a powerful lesson on trust, leadership humility, and grace from 50 years in ministry.

How Will They Turn Out If They Follow My Footsteps? (1 Kings 22:52)

By Austin Gardner • February 21, 2026
W. Austin Gardner reflects on the weight of leadership legacy and 1 Kings 22:52. Are your footsteps worth following? A biblical look at influence, character, and the power of example.

From Performance to Grace: The Journey of W. Austin Gardner

By Austin Gardner • February 20, 2026
After 50+ years of ministry, W. Austin Gardner shares his shift from a culture of performance to a life of resting in grace. Discover the truth about identity in Christ.

The Day Everything Changed (Genesis 41:14)

By Austin Gardner • February 19, 2026
Can everything change in a single day? W. Austin Gardner explores Joseph’s sudden restoration in Genesis 41:14 and why God’s timing is worth the wait.

Manasseh: The Choice to Forget (Genesis 41:51)

By Austin Gardner • February 18, 2026
Can you choose to forget the pain of the past? W. Austin Gardner explores Genesis 41:51 and Joseph’s decision to move from a place of wounding to a place of fruitfulness.

The 25-Year Shadow: When Sin Finds You Out (Genesis 42)

By Austin Gardner • February 17, 2026
What happens when the past resurfaces? W. Austin Gardner explores Genesis 42, showing why character is built in the light and how to face old shadows with grace.

The Exhaustion of Hiding (and the Freedom of Coming Into the Light)

By Austin Gardner • February 16, 2026
Stop the performance. W. Austin Gardner explores the high cost of pretending in ministry and how the "Big Leap of Faith" leads to true spiritual rest.