The Upward Look
© Copyright 2010, Max D. Hutto,

“Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind.”
   1 Peter 2:1 NIV ©

Peter lists five specific sins that the believer must discard from his life. “Malice” is a general term for wickedness that demonstrates hostility toward another person with the desire to hurt or harm them. “Deceit” or guile is deliberate trickery with the idea of deceiving or manipulating another. “Hypocrisy” is playacting or pretending to be something you are not with the idea of hiding or concealing the truth and real motives. “Envy” is jealousy or resentment of another person with the desire to have what they possess. “Slander” literally means evil speaking and includes defamation, backbiting, and gossip. These five powerful sins can destroy the fellowship and love in a church.

Lord Jesus, help me to rid my life of these destructive sins. Instead, fill my life with love, concern, and compassion for others, especially those in Your church.

* (footnotes & credits)

NASB ©
The Bible quotes marked NASB are from the New American Standard Bible,
© Copyright 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977,
by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA. (used with permission)

HCSB ©
The Bible quotes marked HCSB are from the Holman Christian Standard Bible,
© Copyright 2000 by Holman Bible Publishers (used with permission).

NIV ©
The Bible quotes marked NIV are from the New International Version,
© Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, by The International Bible Society. (used with permission)