Avoiding Self Deception
In other words, they need to be humble enough to know that they don't understand everything, and that God is greater and the spirit is stronger.
Season 6, Episode 16 · Avoiding Self Deception
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The story behind the idea
It's about moving forward and learning to do better, and that's the ultimate tone of the episode. I do want to lean in on the seriousness of finding out how is this happening to me and what do I need to be doing about it. I'll be sharing a series of Bible verses from the New Testament that talks about self-deception.
What stands out
In other words, they need to be humble enough to know that they don't understand everything, and that God is greater and the spirit is stronger. The text goes on to say in verse 20, the Lord knows the reasonings of the wise that they are useless. That's not saying that what you know doesn't matter.
Why it matters
James says, that's a great way to know that internally things aren't working well. When you're taking in the truth, you know what God wants you to do. You're reading or hearing the word, and somehow you're just not doing it, and that's okay.
A faithful way forward
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Maybe this should have been the first point, but I felt like pulling it all together, it was a good way to end it.
Put it into practice
I'll just move the order of the points around a little bit, but it will describe a very difficult day in the life of a man named Peter. To start with, like Galatians 6, Peter overestimated his spiritual position by claiming to Jesus that there was no way that he would ever deny him. You probably could mix in a little James I there, where he spoke things that he wasn't able to back up.
Take the idea with you.
- 01What idea from this study most needs my attention right now?
- 02Where does this challenge the way I am currently thinking or living?
- 03What is one faithful step I can take this week?
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