Day 2

Listen:

If you were 100% honest with yourself, are there areas of your life where you are not acting with good intentions? Maybe an area where you know you are hurting someone, lying, or misleading? Sometimes the reason that we are not at peace within ourselves is because we are doing things we know are wrong. And everytime we act in a way that contradicts what we know Jesus calls us to, it brings stress, shame, and the pressure to hide it. Proverbs 12:20 reminds us of the cost of living a life built on cover-ups and lies.

Today’s Passage: Proverbs 12:20

“Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy.”

Look It Up: Look up Proverbs 12 and start reading in verse 15. As you start reading verses 15-20, highlight the difference between honesty and lies, foolishness and wisdom, hurtful words and healing.

Reflect: As you read through this passage, if God brings to mind areas where you are out of alignment with him and his way of living, talk to him about it. Ask him to help you live in truth so that your actions match up to what you believe. Look closely at any areas of your life where you are struggling to find peace, and ask God to show you how your behaviors might contribute to stress you are carrying.

Write It Down: Grab your journal and answer these questions.

• Where are you making decisions or acting in a way that doesn’t line up with what you believe to be right?

• When are you manipulating or covering up your behavior?

• How is this making you feel?

• What do you want to tell God about this? How can he help you?

Pray: Tell God the truth about what you are hoping nobody sees or finds out. Ask him to help you bring it into the light and live free and filled with peace knowing you are doing your best to follow him.