Mar 19, 2022
Do not Deceive Yourselves
19th MARCH 2022
“Do not deceive yourselves. If you think that you are wise in this age, you should become fools so that you may become wise” [1 Corinthians 3:18 NRSV]
The Bible has a repeated theme of reminding us that the Kingdom of God is not similar to the world we live in. There are such distinct differences between the two. So much so that they seem to diverge on almost every topic.
Our verse for today is a classic example. We are admonished to not think of ourselves as wise in this age. The formula for being wise, according to Biblical standards, is to become a fool in the eyes of the world! It is little wonder then that the kingdom of God is often referred to as the upside-down kingdom.
How does being foolish make you wise? Well, if you have been following the Christian principles and doctrines, it’s pretty easy to see how the world will see as foolish the things described as wise. For instance, turning the other cheek when someone offends or upsets you seems pretty ridiculous. The world’s response to a situation like that is to defend yourself, to retaliate.
However, we see the wisdom of God at play here. When we turn the other cheek, we create the opportunity for the person who offends us to experience mercy, forgiveness and a different culture. Basically, we introduce the person to how God runs things. Another wise thing that happens, is that we step back and allow God to judge on our behalf.
Now you might feel silly in carrying this and many other principles like it. The world will laugh at you. It may not feel pleasant. You will feel and seem foolish… know that in becoming the fool, you are made wise.
Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching me not to live by the standard of the world. Help me to diligently honour Your instructions in all areas of life, even when it makes me look like a fool to the world, Amen.
Further Reading: Romans 12:16
Bible In One Year: 1 Samuel [9–12]
