STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART Hypocrisy I don’t think that anyone would want to be referred to as a ‘hypocrite’ yet they exist in large numbers throughout the world. A hypocrite can be described as being somebody who pretends to have admirable principles, beliefs, or feelings but behaves otherwise. Such a person is not to be trusted. A perfect example of hypocrisy is Satan when he tried to overthrow the Creator but was kicked out of Heaven and landed in the depth of the pit. We are warned against hypocrisy - an outward show. Whatever we do, must be done from an inward principle that God approves, not to be praised by men. We are also cautioned against hypocrisy in giving alms. In Matthew Chapter 6:2 Jesus says that when we give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth; they have received their reward in full. Jesus went on to say, And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth; they have received their rewards in full. Hypocrites very often violate communication principles and think nothing of criticizing the target of their frustration in public. In other words, hypocrites are usually insensitive to the feelings of others and can be very callous. Amazingly most hypocrites are mean with their criticisms but can’t take honest constructive criticism. We’ll all minimize conflict when we continuously purify our motives and obey a simple law of communication. Criticize in private and praise in public. Be blessed.
Posted on: Fri, 07 Mar 2014 10:30:11 +0000