Nov 22 – Deceptive Appearance!

“Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also.” (Matthew 23:26)

It is far more important for a vessel to be clean on the inside than just on the outside. Many people cleanse only the exterior to appear impressive before others. But the Lord looks at the heart. He expects inner holiness.

Jesus called the hypocrites “whitewashed tombs.” Outwardly, they appeared beautiful, but inside they were full of filth—rotting bones and decay. They covered the stench and corruption within, polished the outside, and made it look spotless and shining.

Likewise, the Pharisees, Sadducees, and scribes acted pious before people, displaying themselves as righteous. But the Lord was not deceived by their outward appearance. With deep grief He said, “Blind Pharisee! Blind guides of the blind!”

A story is told of a schoolboy who was arrested for breaking into a shop and stealing. Outwardly, he was a good boy—born into a respectable, wealthy family. He had no greed for money nor any desire to steal. After counsellors spoke to him, he confessed, “I don’t even know why I did it. It was because of a feeling of anger that built up inside me. Suddenly my parents strictly forbade me from playing football and seeing my friends. It hurt me deeply, and I wanted to express my resentment—to hurt them back by my actions.”

In the Christian life, our thoughts, attitudes, and actions are deeply connected. If holiness fills our thoughts, holiness will be seen in our deeds. If the roots of a tree are pure, the branches will also bear purity.

When it comes to holiness, we must give greater attention to inner holiness. This does not mean outward holiness is unimportant—but God desires both inward and outward purity. We must reflect His likeness in our outward conduct as well. Our appearance and manner should not become a stumbling block to others.

Dear child of God, the Lord looks at the motive of your life. Is it pure? Do you really have the holiness that God desires in you?

Verse for further meditation: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14)