Fighting Self-deception

Today’s reading: Hebrews 13:1-James 3:12

My selection: James 1:22

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

My reflections: James is concerned about wisdom, that believers be wise in the midst of the rough and tumble of life.  A key part of wisdom is to not be deceived.  One can be deceived about the dynamics of temptation (James 1:12-16), not seeing that there is blessing in remaining steadfast under trial but attempting to shift the blame for temptation to God.  A wise person takes responsibility for his sin.

One can be deceived when he is a mere hearer of the Word of God and not a doer of it.  He knows a lot but practices nothing.  He fails to apply what the Scriptures tell him to his own life and behavior.  He looks into the Word but presumes that it is not addressing any needed change in his life.

My challenge: Beware of self-deception.  It often comes masquerading in the proud thought “I am an exception.  Others need to obey, submit to the truth, but not me. Poor fools.  I am unique.”  Don’t be deceived.  Apply the word more strictly to yourself than to others.  Oh, and be quick about it (James 1:19).

Tomorrow’s reading:  James 3:13-1 Peter 2:12

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