The following of the God of Self is very prevalent in our society and is practiced to varying degrees. This practice was recognized by the United States Supreme Court in 'Casey v Planned Parenthood' when the ruling noted that there is a way that will seem right to each one of us, and it is each person's right, privilege, and duty to choose and pursue that way. The God of Self was prevalent in the time of the Judges for in Judges 21:25 it states, "In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes." The God of Self takes control of our lives when we think we know better than God and when we disagree with God's Word and give preeminence to our will above His will. The first chapter of Romans shows the results of following the God of Self. 

The God of Self can be very devious and cloak itself in religious activities. This is why Christ stated in Matthew 7:21-23, " Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." These have deluded themselves in thinking that they were doing God's will when they were doing their desires just as the Pharisees and Sadducees had elevated their traditions and commands over God's revealed will. It is not in man's way to direct his steps. This is why Jeremiah, in Jeremiah 10:23 wrote, "O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: It is not in man that walketh to direct his steps." and followed with this plea in the following verse, "O LORD, correct me, but with judgment; not in thine anger, lest thou bring me to nothing." 

Have you examined yourself for evidence that the God of Self has created a temple in your heart? You can determine this by considering these three thoughts. First, do you love God's Word and seek for His directions? To assist you in your answer consider Psalm 19:7-8, "⁷ The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.  The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes." Second, when you discover a scripture that requires change in your life, do you resist taking action? Consider James 2:22, "Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?" Finally, who is the final authority over the decisions in your life? When answering, consider Luke 6:46, "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"

In conclusion, Jesus requires total dedication to Him in our lives and there is no room in our hearts for the God of Self.  Jesus stated in Matthew 6:24, "No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon." We ask you to examine your heart and your actions and determine if the God of Self has been enshrined in your heart and pray that you have received the love of the truth.  If you have not, you will find yourself subject to 2 Thessalonians 2:11, "And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:"

Charles Royal, Decatur AL