A Word of Encouragement

September 9, 2025

PA054 - Moonlight Reflections

Grace, Hope & Peace, Friend;

The phrase "do as I say; not as I do" implies that someone should follow instructions or advice given but not necessarily mimic the behavior or actions of the person giving the advice.
	usdictionary.com

Jesus said something similar to the crowds and His disciples;

The scribes and the Pharisees have seated themselves in the chair of Moses. Therefore, whatever they tell you, do and comply with it all, but do not do as they do; for they say things and do not do them.
	Matthew 23:2-3

The scribes and Pharisees were tasked with guiding God's people and yet, although they taught the Law, they did not obey it themselves. And Jesus made seven statements - proclamations of woe - against them for their hypocrisy. (Matthew 23:13-36) They obeyed the flashy things in the law while ignoring their intent -  "Blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel!" (Vs. 24)

But instead of criticizing these men, we need to ask ourselves, "Does my life line up with what I claim to believe?" One of Jesus' statements hits pretty close to home!

Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. So you too, outwardly appear righteous to people, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.
	Matthew 23:27-28

El De’ot - God who intensively knows - May my actions show Your love and holiness

First take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye!
	Matthew 7:5

Live what you believe,