It seems as if we are in a season when rip offs or attempted rip offs are becoming more prevalent. The word attempted rip offs is used because we must be savvy and wise enough to recognize when someone is trying to get over on us. Please be warned that slicksters are out to take advantage of you. Increasingly, I hear of cases where persons are being quoted astronomical prices for work needed on their homes, automobiles, appliances, etc. When persons who are being asked to provide a service and they become overly friendly, look out!
Automobile repair prices have become outrageous, especially when you take the vehicle back to the dealership for repairs. The first strategy of some mechanics is to identify items that may not need repair, but they suggest you have the work done. The intent in some cases is to instill fear into the owner of the vehicle to the point that they are afraid to drive the car off the parking lot. One suggestion is to make it very clear to the person making repairs to your vehicle that you only wish to address the deficiency for which you brought the automobile to be serviced. Another suggestion is to get at least three opinions regarding the work that is needed, if it is not an emergency. Don’t be suckered by these exploiters who attempt to prey on you.
Women, beware for these professional thieves who believe they can get over on you more readily than men, especially when it comes to auto repairs. Yes, they can be considered thieves because they have no conscience, and will use trickery or any tactic to get your money. Men, beware when it comes to household repairs and purchases. Women sometimes have a better idea of what the cost of certain household items and repairs should cost than men. It may be wise to contact family members and friends who may have a better feel and knowledge of these matters than you do. It may also be an opportunity for us to ask the Holy Spirit for discernment.
There are certain trusted professionals that all of us should have if we are going to have a peace of mind regarding different aspects of our lives. We should get to know and use a doctor, lawyer, mechanic and dentist to serve and meet our needs. All the above are key and critical to our quality of life.
There was a person that needed a roof replacement on her home. She was almost angry when one of her potential contractors suggested that the replacement would cost about $60,000. Anytime the contractor starts to negotiate, and the initial price tag is reduced significantly, then you know you are dealing with a con artist. Do not give any impression that you are naïve when it comes to these manipulative human beings.
May we be reminded, however, that there are some very honest and trustworthy people who make their living without having to use cunning means for gain.
Scripture warns against acquiring wealth or advantage through deceitful or unjust means, emphasizing the importance of integrity in all aspect of life. Let us not be fooled by those who proclaim to be Christians, yet their motives are not godly. 1 Timothy 6:10 states that the “love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.”
Proverbs 14:15 warns us against gullibility. Don’t automatically believe everything people tell you. This passage of scripture says, “The simple believeth every word; but the prudent man looketh well to his goings.
Being a Christian does not mean letting people use you as a door mat and walk all over you. Leviticus 25:17 says, “Do not take advantage of each other, but fear God. I am the Lord your God.”
Please do not misconstrue this message, for all of us must have some means of survival, and our professions allow our needs to be met. The problem revealed in this message, hopefully, is for us to be honest and fair in all that we do.
The concept that we reap what we sow is found in Galatians 6:7: “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
In closing, when you know for sure someone is trying to rip you off, tell them you are going to pray for them.
Just my thoughts!
Robert Earl Slade, Pastor
