5/21/25 The Deceitfulness of Sin
Fr. Patrick Bush- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Takeaway: Sin deceives by hardening our hearts gradually.
“But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called ‘today,’ that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.” — Hebrews 3:13
Opening Prayer (Wednesday)
Father, in the middle of this week, I lean on You for strength. When I am weary, be my rest. When I am uncertain, be my guide. Refresh my soul as I draw near to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reflection
Sin rarely announces itself with fanfare or warning. It often begins subtly, almost innocently, but a small compromise made in secret. Hebrews 3:12-13 warns us not just about the presence of sin, but about its strategy. Sin deceives. And its deception leads to a gradual, yet deadly hardening of the heart. Like sediment quietly building at the bottom of a riverbed, the effects of sin accumulate slowly until the once-clear waters of our spirit become muddied and immovable. We do not wake up one day with a hardened heart; it is the product of repeated choices that turn us, little by little, away from the living God.
The danger lies in sin’s ability to make what is wrong appear reasonable or even right. It twists our desires, blurs our discernment, and numbs our sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Before we know it, we begin to ignore godly counsel, and close ourselves off to correction. What once drew us to God now feels dull or distant. This is the deceitfulness of sin.
Yet, the author of Hebrews doesn’t just point to the problem, but also gives a solution: daily encouragement. We are not meant to fight sin’s deception alone. We need the regular support of believers who will speak truth in love, and remind us of God’s promises. Encouragement is more than compliments or motivational words, it is accountability on how we are living daily. When we isolate ourselves from community, we become vulnerable to sin’s slow creep. But when we walk in fellowship, we expose darkness and help each other stay close to the Lord.
Questions
Where have you noticed subtle compromises in your own life that may be hardening your heart toward God?
Who are the people in your life who speak truth and encourage you in your walk with God?
Application
Make a commitment today to invite someone you trust into your spiritual life, someone who can help you stay accountable, offer encouragement, and speak truth in love. In return, look for someone you can encourage spiritually, as well. Be intentional in creating or strengthening rhythms of godly friendship.
Closing Prayer
Lord, You know how easily I can be led astray by sin’s quiet whispers. Forgive me for the times I’ve hardened my heart or ignored Your voice. Surround me with people who will speak into my life with grace and truth, and help me to be that kind of friend to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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