LORD’S DAY, DECEMBER 2
Deuteronomy 13:6-11
1 Corinthians 13:4-7

“Charity rejoiceth in the truth.”

THE LOVE TEST (II)

In Deuteronomy 13:1-5, the love for God and His Word must triumph over all our experiences. However, how will we respond if the false prophet is one of our closest friends? What if he is one of our family? What will we do? Will we stand up for God’s truth? Or will we compromise for the sake of relationships?

It is natural to have deeper affections for one’s family and loved ones. A Christian ought to love his family in the Lord. No one should be cold or unsupportive towards his family (1 Tim 5:8). Neither should he be unthankful to his benefactors. Ungratefulness is the hallmark of an infidel.

Nevertheless, Satan, who is the crafty and deceitful one, may utilise relationships to entrap us, veering us from the Holy Scriptures. These enticements may at times be done “secretly” (Deut 13:6). However, there is no such thing as a secret sin, for soon it will manifest itself and be found out. When such “secret enticements” are permitted to continue, it will quickly result in idolatry, which is an abomination to the Lord. McIntire astutely restated the truth in this way: “The most subtle temptations come through our loved ones. Satan frequently approaches us through intimate friends in whom we have the utmost confidence. So, temptation becomes subtle and powerful.”

How then should Israel deal with a false prophet who is a loved one? The Bible declares that they must never consent to the false prophet’s ways, nor conceal him, but must be first to put him to death (Deut 13:8-9). Nothing must come between them and their love for God!

Dear brethren, our love for fellowmen must be in the truth. When our love for our loved ones exceeds that of God’s Word, we fail the test of love. May the love of God truly reign in our hearts all our days. Let God be our all in all.

THOUGHT: Beware of the devices of Satan.
PRAYER: Father, help me to love Thy Truth above all.