The Danger of Pretending

One of the greatest spiritual dangers is the temptation to appear more devoted than we actually are. 

In Acts 5:1-4, Ananias and Sapphira tried to present themselves as generous givers, pretending to give everything while secretly holding some back. The issue wasn’t the amount they gave—it was the deceit.
 
Pretending to have a deeper relationship with God than we actually do not only harms our integrity, but it also disrupts the unity of the body of Christ.

As Christians, we often feel pressure to have it all together. We might speak or act in ways that make us appear spiritually strong, even when we're struggling. This isn't just about public image—it’s about honesty before God.
 
Why is this important? Because being real with God leads to freedom, transformation, and authentic relationships. What I say, what I do, and who I am should all line up. That’s the kind of disciple God uses.
 
Scripture:
Proverbs 11:3 - The integrity of the upright will guide them, But the crookedness of the treacherous will destroy them.
 
Application:
Examine your heart today—are there areas where you're pretending or hiding? Confess those areas to God and ask for strength to live with honesty and integrity.
 
Prayer:
Lord, help me to live with integrity. I don’t want to pretend to be someone I’m not. Give me the courage to be honest with You and with others. May my life reflect Your truth and not my image.