One of the spiritual traits that I value very highly is authenticity. I am drawn to authentic people, while I am repulsed by hypocritical people. And I'm in good company in that regard.
God said, "Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind." (1 Peter 2:1, NIV)
God hates hypocrisy. He values authenticity.
Which value do you live out in your life? Some clues…
Authentic people serve in secret. Hypocritical people want everyone to know of their service.
Authentic people use normal, everyday language. Hypocritical people feel the need to overuse religious jargon and catch phrases.
Authentic people readily own up to their own faults and shortcomings. Hypocritical people will help authentic people find even more of their faults and shortcomings.
Authentic people feel like spiritual losers most of the time. Hypocritical people have a spiritual superiority complex.
Authentic people would rather help someone find grace instead of condemning their sin. Hypocritical people reverse the order.
Authentic people allow themselves to be changed by God's Word. Hypocritical people try to change God's Word.
Authentic people are generous. Hypocritical people are stingy.
Authentic people value God's mission. Hypocritical people value personal preference.
Authentic people try to see the quality of someone's heart. Hypocritical people can't see past the outer appearance.
Authentic people know who they are in Christ. Hypocritical people have to convince you that they are something they're not.
As you read that list, I'll bet that, at least some of the time, you found yourself in the hypocritical camp. I know I did.
2:42 pm on April 23rd, 2008
thanks for the post – a much needed look in the spiritual mirror – (if you will). authencity requires spiritual intentionality and focus, at least for me. As soon as I allow myself to operate on autopilot, i'm flying in dangerous territory.