The Lies We Tell Ourselves
Psalm 50:21 When you did these things, I said nothing. So you thought that I was just like you. But I will not be quiet any longer. I will correct you and make clear what I have against you.
Why is it that we’re so good at justifying our own bad behaviour? We lose our temper… but they started it. We gossip … well, only because we’re “concerned.” We ignore someone’s need … because we’re just “too busy.” It’s amazing how easily we rationalise what, deep down, we know is wrong.
It’s a bit like in a marriage, when one partner keeps making excuses. “I didn’t mean to snap.” “You’re too sensitive.” Over time, those small deflections build walls of resentment. Eventually the truth breaks through – and it hurts. Because excuses don’t heal relationships. Honesty does.
That’s exactly what happened when God confronted His people. Outwardly, they were religious – offering sacrifices, attending worship – but their lives told a different story. And eventually He says this:
Psalm 50:21 When you did these things, I said nothing. So you thought that I was just like you. But I will not be quiet any longer. I will correct you and make clear what I have against you.
They’d mistaken God’s patience for approval. His silence for agreement. But He was about to hold them to account. Yes, God is patient. Yes, He gives us time and space to figure it out for ourselves and turn back to Him. But eventually, out of His great love, His patience runs out.
And yet, before God exposes what’s hidden, He inevitably gives us the opportunity to bring it into the light ourselves.
So, is there perhaps something you’ve been excusing? Some attitude, habit, or reaction you’ve been rationalising? Do yourself a favour. Don’t wait for God to call you out. Take it to Him now. Because His grace will always meet your honesty.
That’s God’s Word. Fresh … for you … today.
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