Who We Really Are?

It's easy to be fake. We learn this way of coping as we grow up. The Bible calls it hypocrisy. Webster's 1828 Dictionary defines hypocrisy in this way:

"Hypocrisy, n. 1. Simulation,; a feigning to be what one is no, or dissimulation, a concealment of one's real character or motives. More generally, hypocrisy is simulation, or the assuming of a false appearance of virtue or religion; a deceitful show of a good character, in morals or religion; a counterfeiting of religion. 2. Simulation; deceitful appearance; false pretence."

I would say that there are definitely times in my life that I choose to assume a false appearance of "virtue or religion." In some Christian circles the "safe" place to reside is in the middle. Well, there are many times that I just don't agree with the middle, and, frankly, I don't think Scripture does either. I could just say nothing, but that's not how I usually deal with things. (Tact is something I am continually having to work on.)

I do believe that I make the decision to give in to fit in so that I will be respected by my peers. Am I afraid that they won't respect me if I tell them that I think Christmas in unbiblical? Yes, I do. So, in going along to get along, I have sold out on my "conviction" *sarcastic laugh* that Scripture teaches that man-made holy days are idolatry. This is man-worship. I have essentially traded in God's standard of living and truth for what my "friends" think is right.


Luke 12:1-5:

"In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. For there is nothing covered  that shall not be revealed  neither hidden that shall not be known. Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops. And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him."


May God forgive me and all the rest of us who do fear man instead of fearing God.