Contrary Reality

Warren E. Berkley

There may be a gap between what we think we are and what we really are. I may think I am young, gorgeous, brilliant and wealthy. If I feed this self image long enough, and if I get a little help from flattering friends, I may deceive myself into thinking this is real. It doesn’t change reality does it?

This is common, and especially in regard to religious profession. We may think we are religious over such a long period of time, we deceive ourselves into believing everything is all right. We do what we have always done and say what we have always said, carrying through life the assumption that we are saved. What we think doesn’t change contrary reality.

If your heart hasn’t been changed by the gospel of Christ; if your life is not really being lived in Him and according to His teaching, there is a gap between what you think (“I’m saved”) and how you are living (the contrary reality).

Or as James said: “If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless,” and “…someone will say, ‘You have faith, and I have works.’ Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works,” (James 1:26; 2:18).