Today's reading

So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. –Matthew 23:3 NIV

February 12, 2019

Hypocrisy

So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. –Matthew 23:3 NIV

The Pharisees were members of the ancient Jewish sect and were basically self-righteous and hypocritical. They were eager to lecture others but not apply their teachings to their own lives. They studied Scripture, devoting themselves to teaching. The Messiah was standing right in front of them, yet they were blinded. They were filled with religious pride. This was something Jesus couldn’t tolerate. They didn’t point people to God but wanted the attention for themselves. The Pharisees neglected the important areas such as faith, love, and mercy, which is all Jesus requires of us. Jesus states in Matthew 23:25-26 (NIV), “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.” This is a lesson to be learned. If people think we, children of God, are hypocrites, they will not believe in anything we stand for. It is important for us to walk the talk. Our actions must speak louder than our words. Trust Galatians 6:3 (NIV), “If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves.”

prayer focuses

Ask God to reveal what is hindering you from receiving and experiencing healing and freedom from the past.

Pray that the Holy Spirit will help you let go of past issues that are blocking you from living the Spirit-filled life.

music

latest reads

3/28/2024

Know Your Enemy

3/27/2024

Get Past Your Past

3/26/2024

Freedom

3/25/2024

Cold Snap

3/24/2024

Golden Buzzer

3/23/2024

Can You Hear Me Now?

3/22/2024

A Giving Spirit

about the

Author

Rosemary Valentino

Rosemary has been a Christian for forty years and loves the Lord. She is blessed with a loving husband, two children and five grandchildren. She is humbled to be able to write devotions and share God's word. She gives Him all the glory.