Being Honest

Most of us are honest when it comes to money. We wouldn't steal from anyone or cheat others. We tell the truth most the time, too, so that we do not deceive other people. However, it is in the more private matters where we might not be as honest as in those areas. We might have one thing in our heart, but when we speak we say something different. That kind of dishonesty is very bad, especially when it comes to what we say to God.

Jeremiah could tell that the people were not being honest with him or God, when they came wanting him to pray to God for them. (Jeremiah 42:20) When they came back for God's instructions, he told them that they were not being honest when they sent him to pray for them. They told Jeremiah just to tell them what God said, and they would do it. However, that was not what was in their hearts.

When we pray, we can't fool God. Prayer is much more than words. Prayer is the thoughts and intents of the heart, whether we pray out loud or silently. God knows why we are praying. He knows if we have already made up our mind before going to Him.  It is very counterproductive to be dishonest with God.

When our hearts are already made up, and we pray something else, God won't answer our prayer the way we want. Actually, He will have to discipline us for putting on a show. That is what the word "hypocrite" means, and God dislikes hypocrites. Let's decide to go to God and lay out what is in our heart. Then, after we have been honest with Him, let's do what He says.

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Tomorrow, I intend to read Jeremiah 43-45.