Deception

January 3

Deception-the act of deceiving. To be false to, to fail to fulfill, cheat, to cause to accept as true or valid what is false or invalid.

Ugh, shiver, gag, spit! The expiration date on the Eggnog said, January 7th. No sooner had that beverage hit my tongue than was I found running for the sink! Yuck, I was totally deceived.

A friend and I were discussing our disappointment in the deceptive tactics of others to avoid conflict or manipulate situations. The truth eventually comes out and while speaking in truth may not be what we want to hear, it establishes a much better relationship than realizing you really don't know when to believe a habitual deceiver. Just be honest with me, for there within lies and develops much more respect and trust in a relationship. That kind of truthfulness paves a road to the process of forgiveness when necessary! As Moses explained to the Israelites in Numbers 32:23 when he was giving explicit instructions from God...But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the Lord; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out. (I think that line got in the Bible just for parents to be able to say. Smile.)

Taking down the Christmas decorations I decided to go for a "cleaner" less cluttered look around the house. As I was repositioning some plants I found myself turning pots so that nicks and deformities in the ceramic planters would not be seen. Likewise I rotated the plants so that their best side showed forth. Thinking back to putting up the Christmas tree, I recalled spinning it around several times trying to hide some holes. We do that with our physical selves as well. "Take that picture from my good side, please." We try to hide our weaknesses and scenarios which might disappoint those we long to please.

In desiring God to come near to him, David proclaimed to God: No one who practices deceit will dwell in my house; no one who speaks falsely will stand in my presence. Psalm 101:7

How to we grow homes filled with truth, trust, and thoughtfulness?

When we remember Psalm 33:13-14

From heaven the Lord looks down and sees all mankind; from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth. And add to that Romans 5:8: But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. We have a recipe for a healthy home.

God sees our every move, but loves us anyway. Hopefully the more we recognize His presence the more apt we will be to carry out His characteristics in our lives and be Christlike examples for others and less deceitful.

PT Lord as we look ahead to a new year, we recognize You are Omnipresent! Create in us this very day, new hearts which are pure and far from deceitful acts. When we find ourselves weak and turning towards temptation may we be quick to cry out to You for strength and deliverance.

May all who enter the walls of our homes or simply our presence say this is a place/person of truthfulness, trustworthiness and thoughtfulness. In Jesus' Name, Amen