If you have lived on earth long enough, then you’ve probably known or met someone who says one thing but does the complete opposite. Everyone has flaws, yet some stick out more than others, especially when an individual earns a reputation for embellishing, exaggerating or lying. Unfortunately, compulsive acts become like an addiction, like a second nature to someone who promises, “I really mean it this time.”
Pharaoh, king of Egypt appears to have developed this undesirable trait in Exodus 8:26-28. In the midst of each plague sent by God, Pharaoh cried uncle, urging Moses to pray for him to remove the trial facing his empire. However, as soon as each ceased, Pharaoh changed his mind as God continued to harden his heart, Exodus 9:33-35. This pattern of sin went on for several weeks until Pharaoh finally refused to meet face to face with Moses anymore, Exodus 10:27-29.
If I was Moses, I would have given up on Pharaoh, realizing that trying to agree with him was a lost cause. Some of you reading this may have a living co-worker, friend or relative who possess similar traits. Whenever you face this real life scenario, all you can do is try to apply Jesus’ advice from Matthew 5:43-48. Loving those who love you doesn’t require any effort. Instead, God wants you to love and pray for those people who let you down time after time by saying, “I really mean it this time!” Forgive others as Jesus has forgiven you, Colossians 3:13.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 