Self-Deceived

One of the marks of maturity is growing awareness of our motives and intentions. An immature response to life’s events tends to focus on immediate wants, urges, and emotions. A mature response, however, considers consequences, impact, and the deeper “why” behind our actions.

If we’re paying attention, we begin to see that our motives are often not as pure as we’d like to believe—or as we try to present to others. It takes real courage to admit when we desire the wrong things, or even the right things for the wrong reasons. And it takes even more courage to enter the long, difficult process of examining and uprooting outdated mindsets—so they can be reshaped to look more like Christ.

In this work of transformation, our hearts aren’t neutral companions. Scripture reminds us that “the heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure” (Jeremiah 17:9). Left unchecked, our inner voice will lead us astray. We also need to be on guard in seeking the advice and perspective of others. When we need advice, we often turn to our peers, but though they are convenient, are they wise? It is a rare person who will tell you what you need to hear, especially when you don’t want to hear it. Perhaps, that’s not even what we want when we turn to our friends, is there a chance you turn to your peers because you know they’ll agree with your point of view?

Growing up is not an easy process, but you’re not alone— and you’re not without hope. You don’t have to give in to the cunning of your own heart or the persuasion of your peers. Instead, you can embrace the gift of knowing Jesus as your guide. His Spirit leads us in truth, shapes our desires, and offers us the grace to become who we were always meant to be.