By: Ivana

Read: Numbers 30:1-31:54, Luke 4:1-30, Psalm 63:1-11, Proverbs 11:20-21

The Lord detests people with crooked hearts, but he delights in those with integrity.
(Proverbs 11:20)

Relate: Someone once told me that it is better to give your best effort than get a really good score on something you cheated on and don’t actually deserve. Doesn’t it feel good when you reach your goals through your own efforts? Growing up, my parents would always remind me that they would be proud of me as long as I do my best and work hard for something. As a student, I feel the pressure to excel in whatever subject I am taking. My teachers and parents expect the best from me. I also expect the best from myself.

There are lots of moments when I feel like it’s just easier for me to research and just copy paste the answer. There are some moments when I don’t want to put in the hard work for something that I need to do. However, I was reminded that God is angered whenever I am dishonest. It pleases him more when I am honest and work hard to achieve the best results.

React: Whether you are a student or already have a job, always remember that God despises dishonesty and upholds honesty. You could be writing a college essay for a research paper or fighting for a promotion at your workplace. It may seem easier to just use chat gpt to get ahead of your fellow classmates and earn a higher grade. Gaining the favoritism of your boss might seem like the best choice to win over the rest of your colleagues.

These options might seem like the best choice at first. You could be the top student and get the highest grade among all your classmates. The boss could have decided to give you the promotion that you have been aiming for. You can get anything that you want, but at what cost. Is it really worth it to get the desires of your heart in this world but displease God?

Respond:

Dear God,
Help us to put you first above everything and uphold integrity in all that we do. We acknowledge that we are not perfect and can be easily tempted at any moment in our life. Give us the motivation to work hard for everything that we desire.
Amen.