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Devotional
from Jan Ross
Today's Devotion
Friday, December 2, 2000
"Even so ye also outwardly
appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and
iniquity." (Matthew 23:28)
Today's Thought
The outward appearance of man is in many instances deceiving . . .
appearing to be righteous to others but full of iniquity in his
heart.
One of the most common manifestations of this deadly spiritual
problem is malicious gossip! For some reason, some people
feel it is their duty to keep the embers of controversy stirring.
They thrive on tidbits of "juice", putting on a
righteous "air" and going to others with a pious
attitude spewing their poison. The sad thing is that they
don't even consider what they're saying as "gossip" but
put on a mask of spiritual maturity in order to gain the
confidence of those to whom they speak.
More harm has been done in the Body of Christ through the mouths
of malicious gossips than through any other means. Innocent
people have been wrongfully accused, young Christians have been
crushed, and even some of the most mature, Godly people have been
horribly wounded through the words of gossipers.
Take note of the words that come from your own mouth . . . are
they from a heart of love for God and fellow-man, or are they from
a heart corrupt and seeking its own pleasure at the expense of
others?
Examine yourself carefully to make sure you are not one of those
who appear to be righteous but whose heart is full of hypocrisy
and iniquity!
Today's Prayer
Father, I confess that I have been known to say things that I know
would wound or hurt others. Please forgive me for my part in
inflicting deep wounds and scars on people for the momentary
pleasure of appearing "righteous". Lord, cleanse
my heart from all unrighteousness; help me to be to all what and
who You have called me to be. I long to be a clean vessel
through which You can minister to your beloved children.
Cleanse me, O Lord, from all my offences that I may be free to
serve You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength! Lord,
I love you more than anything! Amen!
Have a blessed day!
Jan Ross
jross@focusontheword.com
http://focusontheword.com
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