Devotionals

Hypocrisy

by Jennifer Woodley 
10/05/19
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‘Nothing is covered up that will not be uncovered, and nothing secret that will not become known.’ Luke 12:2 (NRSV)

As a school chaplain, I often encounter hypocrisy. Children are known for their childish ways. They are often found acting kindly and sweetly to their peers one moment, but speak disparagingly about them when alone with others. They are friendly to their face, but behave and speak like an enemy the moment they’ve turned their back. Yes, hypocrisy is running rampant in the school ground (and often in the staff room too).

The result of hypocrisy is that trusting relationships are destroyed. Furthermore, this malicious spirit of hypocrisy creates a distrust among children and adults which has the potential to affect their ability to form healthy relationships in the future.

We know that hypocrisy is saying one thing but believing something very different or acting in a way that is not consistent with our words. In this passage, Jesus goes on to say that whatever hypocritical words or behaviour we have indulged in will be revealed for what they really are – lies. Everything kept a secret will soon become known. Whatever we’ve said privately will be revealed publicly. Whatever we’ve said in the dark, will be exposed in the light.

Where are our words and actions not matching up? Where are we conducting our conversations with an underlying agenda? Where are we trying to manipulate, convince or win the favour of others through smooth words of flattery? Do we need to realign our conduct so that we live truthfully before God?

Let’s be honest with ourselves and ask God for wisdom so that we can discern what is right and what is wrong.