Empty Words

II Peter says,  For they mouth empty, boastful words and, by appealing to the lustful desires of the flesh, they entice people who are just escaping from those who live in error.  They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity—for “people are slaves to whatever has mastered them.”

These past few days of devos have included very serious, stern words against boasting in our own selves, our own accomplishments, and our own plans.

In this passage, the boasting talked about is empty, appealing to lustful desires, and enticing.  In fact, the boasting here lures other unsuspecting individuals in, because of false promises.

I suppose many will think of politicians here, because it sounds like the way many are described.  But not only politicians use empty words.

Look at the last part of the passage, where we read that we are slaves to whatever masters us. 

If greed and lust of money and things masters our thoughts and actions, greed will rule us, and we will attract others who are looking for a handout.

If power and fame masters our outlook and job choices and decisions in the workplace (or even at church), that ill-gotten power will rule over us and be the sure death of us.

It’s important that what we boast about directs others to His love, not our ways and directives.  It’s one thing for our boasting to hurt ourselves, but it’s quite another if it lures others into the same pit into which we fall.

Remember to boast in the Lord  and his goodness, faithfulness, and righteousness.