The Danger of Hypocrisy
My grandmother used to say, “It’s better to be around a thief than a hypocrite.” At first, I didn’t fully understand what she meant, but as I’ve lived life, I see her wisdom. A thief may steal your possessions, but a hypocrite will steal your peace, your trust, and your sense of safety in a relationship. They are dangerous because they pretend to be one thing while secretly working against you.
The Bible gives us a clear example in Judas. In my eyes, Judas wasn’t just a betrayer he was a hypocrite. He pretended to be a friend, walking side by side with Jesus, breaking bread with Him, all while plotting to sell Him out for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14–16). Imagine the pain of knowing that someone you allowed in your inner circle was smiling in your face while plotting behind your back.
Hypocrisy is dangerous because it destroys the foundation of trust. Whether it’s a friendship, a family relationship, or even within the church, when people are not who they claim to be, the relationship can’t truly grow. Jesus warned against hypocrisy, especially in Matthew 23, calling the Pharisees “whitewashed tombs” who looked good on the outside but were corrupt within. It’s a reminder that God values authenticity and truth over appearances.
In my own life, I’ve had to learn to discern who is really for me and who is just around for their own gain. It hurts to realize some smiles aren’t genuine and some “I’ve got your back” promises are empty. But God is faithful, He reveals what is hidden in time. He teaches us that not everyone belongs in our circle, and that’s okay. What matters is that we remain true, not letting someone else’s hypocrisy cause us to harden our hearts.
If you’ve ever been hurt by a hypocrite, I want you to know that you are not alone. Even Jesus faced betrayal. But the good news is that God can heal that hurt and surround you with people who are genuine, loyal, and aligned with His will.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching us the dangers of hypocrisy. Help us to be people of integrity whose words and actions align with Your truth. Lord, protect us from those who smile in our faces but harbor deceit in their hearts. Reveal the hearts of those around us, and give us wisdom to know who we can trust. Most importantly, help us never to fall into hypocrisy ourselves, but to live authentically and honor You in all we do.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen