During my childhood, it was common for neighbors to dare or double dare you to do something against your parents will. Using the phrase, “what’s wrong, are you chicken,” the darer attempted to use peer pressure to push you beyond your limits. Depending upon the ego of an individual, those unable to swallow their pride were shamed into doing the unthinkable.
Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? – Acts 5:3
Early in the first century, a couple tried to duplicate the generosity of a giving man called Barnabas. Hoping to obtain the same fame and popularity, Ananias and Sapphira decided to exaggerate, lie and stretch the truth. After donating money to the church from a piece of property that was sold, the actual amount was hidden, giving a fake appearance. Revealed to him by the Holy Spirit, Peter responds, “I can’t believe you went there!”
Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.” – Acts 5:4
Whether you are challenged, dared or tempted to do something, there are certain things that are off limits. Lying to the Holy Spirit is one of these domains. If politicians dropped dead each time they lied, there wouldn’t be enough to serve in office. Nonetheless, this unusual story in the Bible is used as a teachable moment, a warning to the genuine, not to go there. Since everything usually happens for a reason, may this event in history prevent you from blatantly sinning against God or the Holy Spirit.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 