Did you know that deception is at the center of the kingdom of darkness? The devil’s domain is not founded on hate (even though it is hateful), nor is it founded on violence (even though it is violent). What the enemy of our soul propagates and promotes are lies, especially in the life of believers. Satan’s influence in the world comes through drawing Christians into some form of deceit that keeps them from experiencing the complete love and lordship of Jesus. By embracing any manner of dishonesty, no matter how seemingly innocent, a door is opened and the devil can gain a foothold. 

Jesus tells us to let our yes be yes and our no be no. That means He expects us to know what we want and don’t want to do and to act in accordance. A recent study showed that the average person lies three times in the course of a normal conversation with someone new. While that seems a bit unbelievable, the type of lies being told in this scenario are what we might call “social norms.” A person may falsely flatter in an effort to gain approval or say that they agree with something when in fact they don’t. Whatever the case, social lies are a type of deception, and when left unchecked, they can form patterns of dishonesty. These habits are destructive to the faith-walk of a Christian, because if the Holy Spirit’s conviction is repeatedly ignored, guilt arises, and this can lead to denial, anxiety, or even a hardened heart. 

Friend, God’s best for your life is found when you guard against every form of dishonesty. Resolve to be a person of sincerity and candor, and pray for eyes that see the subtle ways in which Satan seeks to manipulate and steal your abundant life. Jesus is the Truth, and when you follow His lead, imitate His life, and live by the power of His Spirit, you will be truly free!