Duplicity (Double-Mindedness)
Scripture:
James 4:7-8
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
Reflection:
Today I choose to fast from the wound of duplicity.
Although we may joke about mothers have eyes in the back of their heads, in reality, it is not possible for us to see in front of us and directly behind us at the same time. Even when looking in a mirror your gaze in fixed in one place or the other. Trying to look ahead and behind at the same time gives us a picture of duplicity, what it means to be double-minded.
The original Greek meaning of the word is “two selves” or “two souls”. It’s wanting and not wanting, being in and being out, being committed and being hesitant all at the same time. Duplicity leaves us emotionally exhausted, vulnerable to doubt, and unable to walk with confidence in any given direction. All of this erodes our faith. James 4:8 tells us, if we turn towards God, God will come to us. Our double-mindedness does not need to end in indecision, God offers us a way out.
Questions for Personal Reflection:
When do I experience restlessness and indecision in my life?
How do I most often respond to feelings of duplicity/double-mindedness?
Prayer:
Share honestly with God about any areas of your life where you feel restless, indecisive or conflicted. Ask God to come near to you and guide you in the way that you should go. Pray for wisdom and courage to live faithfully.
These devotions have been adapted from “Lenten Healing: 40 Days to Set You Free from Sin” by Ken Kniepmann.
