"Double Talk - Double Life"

by

Calvin R. Wulf and Lisa Are Wulf

     “He is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.”  James 1:8 (NIV)

     “I can’t believe those politicians think its ok to lead such shocking personal lives,” she exclaims, clicking off the news.

     “But what does it matter if they’re doing a good job?” her husband replies.

     “Well, I suppose.  Oh, by the way, the bank called today about those checks you bounced last week.”

     “OK.   Let me handle it.  But just don’t tell anyone at church.  I’m an elder, you know.”

     That conversation happens every day in America .  We’re glued to the TV, obsessively watching wrongdoing at the highest levels.  Yet we often excuse it.  We’re convinced that job performance is all that counts and somehow personal conduct is divorced from public accomplishments.  But do we overlook this in our leaders so we can excuse it in ourselves?

     Even we sometimes hide behind our public image.  We've told ourselves that private conduct doesn't matter, yet we're still terrified that somebody might find out.  Sadly, many have become double-minded people leading double lives. 

     Operating under different standards is like trying to be two people at the same time.  Our thinking becomes divided and unsteady.  We’re insincere and unstable.  In the end, this path leads only to deception, lies, and heartache. 

     God’s way is simple.  He asks for just one standard.  When he tells us that we can’t serve two masters, he’s encouraging us to serve him alone in an attitude of humility.  If we live by God’s instructions, we'll be consistent inside and out and we won't have to hide anything. 

     Living such a life is tough.  Try these tips:

·        Pick God's standard to live by.  Let him show you the path to follow.

·        Hold each of your actions up against it.  Do they all pass muster?

·        Be consistent.  God's path is straight and steady.

     If both pieces of your life are cut from the same cookie dough, can they really be different?  Living two lives is nerve-wracking.  Why not just let go of the double talk?  Leave your double life behind and follow God's perfect path.

Living for God (TM) offers resources on Christian living.  To learn more about workshops and retreats, visit www.livingforgod.net or call (719) 578-8837.

Copyright 2006, Calvin R. Wulf and Lisa Are Wulf