|
SINCERITY
Read Psalm 12:1-8 (key verse 6).
David was despairing of the insincerity
of the people, the unfaithful, the flatterers, the boasters. But he
rejoiced at the sincerity of the word and promises of God. Have we ever
resorted to deception to achieve our own ends?
Read Zechariah 7:5-14 (key verses 5,6).
The Israelites, even though they
went through the motions of piety with fasting and mourning, they had lost
their close relationship with God. Do we sometimes worship and pray from
habit or always from a sincere attitude of our love for God?
Read Matthew 15:1-20 (key verses 7-9).
Jesus frequently criticised the
Pharisees for their insincerity, for being more concerned with ritual and
tradition. They claimed to honour God whilst their hearts and desires were
elsewhere. Beware of secular traditions in spiritual matters.
Read Acts 2:42-47 (key verse 46).
Early believers met in homes for
worship and fellowship and with 'sincere hearts' praised God. And they
were blessed. Sincerity always has its rewards.
Read Romans 12:9-16 (key verse 9).
In these wonderful and familiar
verses Paul urges sincerity with others, particularly in our expressions of
love. Love is a 'cheap' word these days and often speaks of desire, of
things, of enjoyment and of worldly pleasures.
Read 1 Corinthians 5:6-8.
In dealing with the issue of an immoral
brother, Paul speaks of sincerity and truth in the context of the purity of
motives.
Read 2 Corinthians 1:12; 2:17; 8:8 and 11:3.
In these verses Paul
emphasises the need for sincerity in our attitude to God and in our
dealings with others.
Read 1 Timothy 3:1-16 (key verse 8).
An important chapter dealing with
the appointment of deacons and overseers and the need to command respect by
our sincerity in positions of responsibility.
Read James 3:13-18 (key verse 17).
True wisdom, God's wisdom, is marked
by purity, impartiality and sincerity. Self-assessment time?
Read 1 Peter 1:17-23 (key verse 22).
A further plea for sincerity in our
love for others as born again Christians through the living and enduring
word of God. Review the sincerity of your Christian love for those around
you at work, at church and at play.
Back To Home Page
|