The thought of being caught in a lie is bad enough. Imagine if you were a religious leader caught in the lie. Now imagine that it made the national news. Recently, a pastor was found to have lied having claimed for many years that he served as a Navy Seal. He apparently talked about it during sermons but was found out when a news organization reported his story and real Navy Seals exposed the lie.
I feel pity for this man who felt he had to create a lie about his past yet there are many people who do this. It is especially sad when a religious leader feels he must do this. One quote from the article really bothered me:
“We deal with these guys all the time, especially the clergy. It’s amazing how many of the clergy are involved in those lies to build that flock up,” said retired SEAL Don Shipley.
Of all people, those who are close to God should feel confident in who they are and honor the truth above all things. You should never feel like you have to claim to be something that you are not. Sometimes you can be tempted to claim that you are the best at some sporting activity, video game, or other achievement in order to impress people. You may feel the need to brag because you are around people who you may feel are better than you (though you might not admit it).
First, remember that we all have different strengths and weaknesses.The people that you might percieve as being better than you in one area may be weak in an area where you are strong. Even if were not the case (very doubtful),
by MountainBread via Flickr (Creative Commons)
you shouldn’t feel inferior to anyone. We are all made in God’s image and are unique. Remember, that when you lie about who you are, you are wanting people to like someone else. When you are honest about who you are, if they don’t accept you, consider it a blessing. You don’t want to spend your time trying to be something you’re not to live up to a lie.
Second, remember that the child of God must not lie (1 Timothy 1:10; Revelation 21:8).
Third, remember that your sins will find you out, Numbers 32:23. Like the pastor in the story, eventually people will discover your lie or you will get tired of living the lie and will finally tell the truth. Often, liars will contradict themselves and people will discover the lies. At other times, people just don’t believe someone who claims to be the best at everything. If nothing else, you will know the truth.
Be true to yourself. You are a special creation of God and you do not have to pretend to be someone you are not. You will be loved and accepted for who you are. You do not have to pretend to be anything for anyone.
My passion is analyzing information, exploring ideas, lifelong learning and sharing knowledge with others. I have a wide range of interests and am not easily bored so I approach unfamiliar and diverse subjects with great zeal. I am a business nerd, fascinated by what can be accomplished through innovative companies and people who want to change the world.
My faith is very important and I enjoy opportunities to share my observations and study insights through teaching and writing. I follow the simple teachings of Jesus and try to reflect His glory in my life. I work with young people on applying the teachings of Jesus to their unique challenges and opportunities.
"Curiosity keeps taking us down new paths." - Walt Disney
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