Thursday: DON’T BE DECEIVED!

Apr 13, 2023
2 min read

DON’T BE DECEIVED!

James 1:16-21

16 Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.

19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. 21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

If I go around living a life full of deception, I will be living a lie. I can deceive myself into thinking that I can create goodness and perfection in my strength, but this is just a shifting shadow.

God chose me to be born again into His kingdom through the word of truth He spoke into my life, so that I would generate more fruit into His creation.

God desires for me to be filled with righteousness, so that I hear Him clearly.

THINK ABOUT THESE THINGS

God planted His Word in me, which brings me life. Through Him, I am saved. When I humbly accept His Word, I submit myself to do His will.

When I get angry when I don’t get my way, I displace His righteousness in my heart. Therefore, He desires me to get rid of anything that defiles my heart and brings disorder. I should ask Him to remove any residue that causes my heart to think, feel or act troublesome or destructive.

Having a heart of disorder is an unhealthy way for me to live. Through my actions, I bring disorder to others in my life. I want to spread rejoicing instead of envy and to spread love instead of selfish ambition.

If I believe in His will for my life, I will obey the One who gave me life. I desire to influence others for Christ, not influence them for my selfish desires.

Lord, thank You for the righteousness You planted in me, and allow me to allow You to shine in my life, so others can see You at work. Amen.

May you be blessed,

Chaplain Wayne Ruckman