Deceptive Words

Today's Reading:
Jeremiah 6:16-8:7
Revelation 7:1-17
Proverbs 2:12-22 
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Focus Verses: Jeremiah 7:3-8
3 This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Reform your ways and your actions, and I will let you live in this place. 4 Do not trust in deceptive words and say, "This is the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD!" 5 If you really change your ways and your actions and deal with each other justly, 6 if you do not oppress the alien, the fatherless or the widow and do not shed innocent blood in this place, and if you do not follow other gods to your own harm, 7 then I will let you live in this place, in the land I gave your forefathers for ever and ever. 8 But look, you are trusting in deceptive words that are worthless.

Insight:
Sometimes we deceive ourselves by thinking that we're right with God just because we say the right words, observe the right traditions, or attend the right church. None of these things has value apart from a life that is truly devoted to God. Our actions, our dealings with others, and our wholehearted devotion to God are more important than rituals, traditions, and religion.

Response and Action:
I will not settle for forms and practices of religion or tradition that are disconnected with a true relationship with God. My worship and my traditions must flow out of a true devotion to God. I will do all I can to cultivate a deep and meaningful walk with God.

O God, help me to live for you and through you in thought, word, and deed. Help me to love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love my neighbor as myself. Let my praise be more than words, for I know it's more than words that you desire. Let my life proclaim honor and reverence for you. Amen.

Spiritual Formation Verses: Galatians 6:7-8
7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.

Resources:
The Spirit of the Disciplines
by Dallas Willard