“The self-seeking soul is a robber, for he steals from God that which belongs to Him and takes for himself that which belongs to others. Not only does self-seeking carry on its devilish work out in the world but also in the gatherings of religious people, in the house of the righteous, even in the hearts of those who desire to follow the unselfish Jesus. It is self-seeking when one desires to appear more pious than others, to pray more beautifully than others, when one always wants to have the advantage for oneself. But the scriptures say, “Cursed be the deceiver.”
Malachi 1:14 K.J.V.
~by G. Steinberger from Footprints
After reading and deeply gleaning from old Malachi, I must admit: I have been, still am at times, A DECEIVER! Meditate on Malachi 1:6-14 and see what you find within your spirit. Are you a deceiver also? Think about that.
You’d think I would have gotten over my self by now, being a Christian for over half a century. Are you over your self now, my Christian friend? Let me warn you; it’s all too easy to answer, “Yes.”
I ploughed through my motive file and polished it up with all the honesty I could muster… and saw the real ME. I was shocked and ashamed, for SELF had deceived me. My motives were the clear indicators, the defining marks. I realize I need some soul therapy, some deep-down soul cleansing. Like that old song went, “I’m gonna wash that man right outta my hair…well, I’m gonna wash that self right outta my soul.”
Oops, wrong again. I can’t rid my spirit of selfishness, but I know a Man who can: Jesus Christ, my Lord and King. There’s a tiny bit of selfishness in this article I’m writing right now. I know it. I feel it. I will pray the Lord remove it. I have no need to boast, except in the Lord Jesus. In Him I will live and breathe throughout all eternity.
Shalom
Read more articles by Jeanne E Webster or search for articles on the same topic or others.
