Wednesday: DON’T BE DECEIVED

May 3, 2023
2 min read

1 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them. Ephesians 5:1-7

As a child of God, I desire to follow His example to walk in the way of love.

Because of this commitment, I must be on my guard. If I let my guard down even for a minute, I am in danger of temptation from the evil one.

I can strive to keep my life pure if I guard against impure things from entering my life. Instead of sexual immorality, which is related to the greed of the flesh, I can devote myself to the Lord.

Instead of obscene, foolish talk and coarse joking, I can celebrate with others with thanksgiving.

There will always be someone who tries to deceive me with empty words, tempting me to give in just a little bit. But even a hint of impure things can breed a lifetime of regret; as for me, I choose obedience to the Lord over the desire to please others.

THINK ABOUT THESE THINGS: It takes more courage to follow the Lord than it does to be a fool; anyone can be deceived, but the faithful will inherit the kingdom of God.

By submitting to others in love, I can have them test me to determine my motives are pure. While I do not want to partner with the disobedient, I will accept rebuke from those who follow the Lord.

Lord, help me to not be deceived by others, but to follow You in all that I do. I humbly submit in obedience to You. Amen.

May you be blessed,

Chaplain Wayne Ruckman