Pray the words of this Lazaroo aloud, in the love of God:

“Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers.“
(James 1:16)

That’s easier said than done, Jesus.

I’ve been burned more times than I can count.

Just about the time I think I’ve got it figured out

somebody else comes along and blindsides me.

Please don’t think I’m whining…

but the hardest thing about avoiding deception
is trying to obey all Your other commands at the same time.

For example, I could refuse to believe anything anyone tells me from here on.

But if I do that, nobody will be able to teach me anything.
I’ll stop growing.

Or, I could have nothing more to do with anyone who’s ever wronged me.
That would spare me a ton of grief!

But You tell me to forgive them the way You forgive me –
and You sure haven’t walked away from me.

As scary as it is…

I’ve got to risk it, don’t I?

_________
Proverbs 26:12; Matthew 11:18; Matthew 18:21-35; Luke 23:34; Romans 5:6-8; 1 Corinthians 6:7; 2 Corinthians 11:16; Ephesians 4:15; Colossians 3:12-14; 1 Timothy 5:8

What is Lazaroo?

Take Me Deeper

Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved.