Read:
Matthew 25:26-28 “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. Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.”
Think:
Often, we devote significant time to improving our outward appearance while neglecting our internal state. We might spend hours cleaning the exterior of our car until it shines, with spotless wheels and a clean undercarriage, while the interior is filled with trash and unpleasant smells. This focus on managing our image can be similar to the Christian life, if we're not careful. Our efforts to look “holier” may unintentionally expose a disparity between our outward and inward lives.
The Holy Spirit reveals where we're disconnected, highlighting gaps between our beliefs and behaviors. This is not intended to embarrass or shame us, but to help us identify areas where we can grow. The Holy Spirit does this out of love, not condemnation, so that we can be encouraged to change for God's glory and our own good. It's an invitation to move toward spiritual health and wholeness, rather than an accusation.
As we continue our Christian journey, let's not neglect the internal work that needs to be done. Let's be open to the Holy Spirit's guidance and allow him to reveal areas where we need to grow. With his help, we can continue to become more like Christ and live a life that glorifies him.
Apply:
Ask the Lord to reveal any gaps between your behaviors and beliefs. Ask him for a holy conviction to become more like him in every way.
Pray:
Jesus, thank you for your love and patience. Forgive me for the times when I am more focused on status rather than you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.