Hypocrisy

     Today as I was doing my experiment for "those who hunger and thirst..." and engaged in weekly breakfast club, I noticed many references to hypocrisy. A comment was made in breakfast club that struck home with me. A recent survey showed that one of the most common words that people think of when they think Christians is hypocrites. Many good points were brought up as to how we dismiss all hypocrisy and start fresh with our peers, so they can see God through us. For instance, Bob is mad at me for something I said and is holding a grudge. The only way he can look past it is to hear me sincerely apologize, and then he can forgive and forget and recognize God in my life, instead of, "Hey, there's that chick who is mean to me." We are all challenged as a group to approach nonbelievers and believers throughout the day, and confirm that we love them and never mean to hurt them. With a clean slate, we can deliver God's message in the correct attitude.
     Next, I dug into one of my Kingdom Experiments of the week, which encourages readers to read and reflect over Matthew 5, 6, and 7. Throughout Matthew 6, there are numerous mentions of hypocrisy. Wow, God is really piecing it together for me! Matthew 5 inspires us to "settle matters quickly....I tell you the truth, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny." All this passage is implying, is that we should set ourselves right with others, so that we can share the word without fear of judgement or persecution. As you read further, Matthew 6 explores the concept of hypocrites even more. Often times Christians tend to heighten themselves above others, simply because they are "in the word." We should not compare ourselves to others, because we are all brothers and sisters in Christ, and therefore equal in His eyes. To overcome hypocrisy, we must make right what is wrong, and honor God in our daily lives. Hypocrites, as mentioned in Matthew, are also inferred as arrogant and haughty, and usually do things only for recognition. God tells us that those who proudly live their life for acknowledgement will receive praise in this life, but those who are humble before God will collect their reward in heaven! As we go through this week, let us all seek out those we have hurt, repent, and share God's powerful Word!
Abby(: