Being Deceived

Being Deceived

James 1:16

"Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers."

Why are these biblical words so profound? We should take notice that this warning is found so often throughout the pages of the Bible. From Jesus' Sermon On The Mount to the end of Pauls' life in prison, we are warned about being led astray by deceptive heresies. The book of Colossians states it this way:

Colossians 2:8

"See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ."

The Bible tells us that there are two "Fathers" that we can look to. God is the Father of Lights and Satan is the father of lies. The Devil is constantly trying to distract us from God, wanting to steal us away from our Heavenly Father. He wants to take His place and he will tell any lie in order to deceive you.

It is no accident that right after James refers to God as our Father, he talks about birth. Our earthly desires "gives birth" to sin (v15) and the father of lies knows that sin separates us from God. So, he lures us down the road to sin. But, God "brings us forth" through the truth of His Word. (v 18)

From the one father, sin is born. From the other, truth. So, ask yourself: Who is your father?

Are you honoring God with love and obedience or do you let the world’s desires and lusts drag you away from Him towards the other father?

As God’s children, we know that He is always there for us. Be diligent to live your life the way He tells us to. Ignore the temptations and desires that draw us away from Him.