And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him; for they feared the people. Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve. And he went his way, and communed with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray him unto them. And they were glad and covenanted to give him money. And he promised and sought opportunity to betray him unto them in the absence of the multitude. (Luke 22:2-6)

Reading the account in Luke 22:2-6, we learn about the conspiracy against Jesus. The priests and scribes, blinded by their worldly ambitions, plotted His demise. And then enters Judas, one of the twelve, influenced by Satan. Not driven by theological differences, but by financial motivations, he offered them a chance to arrest Jesus privately.

With the perspective of 2,000 years, it's tempting to view these individuals as openly wicked, knowingly defying God's will. Yet, it's plausible that in their own minds, warped by their desires and justifications, they believed they were doing right. They might've even seen Judas' proposition as a favorable sign, cementing their belief in their cause.

The danger? Deception. We too can fall into the trap of rationalizing our actions, blurring the lines between right and wrong. Given enough time and repetition, we might start believing our own falsehoods.

So, as a gentle reminder:

• Sin remains sin. Whether it's gossip, lying, or pride.
• Judgment Day awaits us all, a day of reckoning for our deeds.
• The realities of Hell and eternal punishment persist.

Let's not follow the footsteps of Judas, the priests, and the scribes. Let's not deceive ourselves to think that sinful actions could ever align with God's wishes. To see if we're deceiving ourselves, it's beneficial to ask God to investigate us (Psalm 139:23-24), and turn to those who will provide us with candid feedback, no matter the cost to them.

=========

Prayer

=========

Lord, grant me the discernment to always see Your truth clearly. Protect my heart from deceit, from the allure of short-term gains and desires. Let me not rationalize my sins or stray from Your path. When I falter, gently remind me of Your eternal truths. I want to live a life in alignment with Your will, and not be led astray by fleeting temptations. Amen.

=========

Reflection

=========

1. What lies or justifications have you told yourself recently about actions you know aren't in alignment with God's will? (Don't lie or justify! 😆)

2. How can you strengthen your discernment to prevent self-deception?

3. In moments of temptation, how can you better remind yourself of God's eternal truths and the consequences of sin?

Communion Requires Brokenness

❤️ Sharing is Caring. Know someone who could benefit from this devotion? Forward them this email or send them to http://goingdeeper.site to sign-up.