Amos 2:4 - Self deception

Scripture:

Amos 2:4
4 Thus says the Lord,
"For three transgressions of Judah and for four
I will not revoke its punishment,
Because they rejected the law of the Lord
And have not kept His statutes;
Their lies also have led them astray,
Those after which their fathers walked.
NASU


Thoughts:

As God is enumerating the sins of Judah for which the nation is being judged, He makes an interesting statement, "Their lies also have led them astray." 

This is so insightful of human behavior.  In rejection of the truth, people begin to lie about what is right and wrong.  Maybe at first to others to defend their sin, but also to themselves to rationalize it. 

Before long however, the liar becomes a victim of their own lie.  Having rehearsed the lie so often, they now believe it, having deceived themselves.  So that now, they can no longer see what is right.


Prayer:

Lord God, self deception is such a scary proposition -- to be leading oneself astray!

Please reveal to me any self deception in my life.  Give me the wisdom and strength to submit to what Your word says, over my own opinions or rationalizations. 

Amen

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB.