Protection Against Relational Bitterness

Where does deception reside? The easiest answer is “on the inside” of a person. Yet, how does deception get inside of someone? The widest gate for deception is the gate of the mind. How we think controls what we do. Beliefs determine behaviors. Once the mind is infected with deception, it grows like a cancer, and it ends up dominating not only one’s thoughts, but one’s emotions too. Paul writes some of the most helpful words of instruction in Philippians 4 concerning our need to take responsibility over what enters our minds. Everything from the relationships we have with others to the potential influences seeking permission to shape our thoughts must be treated with intentionality and precision. When we properly guard the gates of our minds, we control what is shaping us on the inside. To do this is one of the most essential disciplines of making your life deception-proof.