Lie to Who?
Lie to Who?
(#226 from Suffer Well Devotional Series©)
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When I tell you that your unredeemed heart is wicked and deceitful above all things (Jeremiah 17:9), it is because I know your thoughts. “I Am He who searches the kidneys [emotions] and hearts [intellect, intentions].” (Revelation 2:23) Yes, I created your brain and your ability to develop both temporal and spiritual perception. However, its vast capabilities can work against you as, oftentimes, you convince yourselves that anything bad (the revelation of a wickedness) to your conscience is about someone else. “Wicked and deceitful?” It may still refer to you loved one, if you do not step into your fullness and, on your journey, remain honest about your propensity to live with one foot in this world and one foot in My Kingdom.
Your brain’s ability to perceive My deep things (1 Corinthians 2:10) is rivaled only by its ability to rationalize unrighteousness. Here is a spiritual equation for you to ponder: to rationalize unrighteousness equals hypocrisy. Your denial of this tendency also pertains to your lack of humility. Yes, I know all things about you so, “Humble yourselves in My sight and I will lift you up.” (James 4:10)
Hypocrisy is prevalent because you dream of eternal things and raise hands in worship, yet if you are honest with yourself, contemplating eternity with Me in the future does not fill your soul today with overflowing joy. It’s as if you have given up on the now, and placed all of your hope in what one day “might” be. And then you assuage your lack of daily joy with religious services. How is it that I Am the Mighty One of your eternal life and not the Mighty One of your daily life?
Have I not spoken to you about double-mindedness? “Subject yourselves to the Almighty. Resist the adversary [the carnality within that seeks to “choose” rather than obey] and he shall flee from you. Draw near to the Mighty One, and He shall draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, sinners. And cleanse your hearts, you double-minded!” (James 4:7-8) I have called you to live in joy, peace, and righteousness today, not just in eternity. Stop lying to yourself; if you cannot find joy today in faith, how are you so certain it is there for your eternity? Can you quit before the race is over, yet expect the eternal prize?
What am I saying to you? First, I would ask you to stop demanding My eternal prize with your daily dirge. Anger, anxiety, fear, bitterness, selfishness, and greed; all of these have part in your daily life, yet you expect and discuss with others the wonders of the life to come. Stop it loved one! Stop it or I will do it for you. Yes, I would rather you be honest and confess your lack of faith that I will supply all your daily needs (Philippians 4:19). Do this before you discuss My eternal glory; honesty demands it!
Talk to Me; stop lying to yourself; face your fears with Me. I, alone, can conquer what hinders you today, all that keeps you from today’s hopes and joys. Today is My day; rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24) This is why I have asked you to number your days (Psalm 90:12). Ask of Me and I shall reveal more of the eternal things, but first rejoice while it is still called “today” (Hebrews 3:12-15).