Accused Hypocrite

Dear Victorious,

My wife says I am a hypocrite. This makes me angry and hurt. How do I know if that's true?

Accused Hypocrite

Dear Accused,

There are several signs of true hypocrisy.

1. Knowing the truth but not obeying it.
2. Living a self-serving life.
3. Reducing faith to rigid rules or rule-following.
4. Outward conformity without inner reality.

Many times non-believers will use the supposed (or real) hypocrisy of Christians as an excuse to stay away from God and the church. At times, the behaviors of Christians may provide someone with the ammunition to label you as a hypocrite. But you must discern that with your own heart, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is possible that God is using your wife to speak truth into you and call you to a higher level of holiness.

Look at the signs of hypocrisy and ask God to show you what He sees in you. Then respond to him with a repentant, humble heart. This of course will require that you set aside any righteous indignation.