“[A]nd with all the deception of wickedness for those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth so as to be saved” (2 Thessalonians 2:10).
They did not receive what was offered. God has come to rescue, but there are those who will not be rescued. The Lord does not desire that any would perish, but there are many who will. Of course, God gets blamed for the decisions that others make. This is all a part of the deception of wickedness. People think they are clever when they are merely deluded. Come into the light and presence of the One who saves.
Lord, it is not a pretty sight, but if I even take a cursory look, I see the deception of wickedness all around me; all of the temptations which never satisfy. Lead me away from these things and into Your presence. Lead me to know that what You have spoken is right and true, that Your statutes are good. Help me understand these things and practice them now and forevermore.
Lord Jesus, You who see clearly, walked this world and saw things as they are. Yet You continued to the cross for the sake of all of those who love You and come through Your atonement to the Father. Lead me always, Lord, and keep me from straying. Guide me according to Your purposes to live into the life of faith that You have given me. Guide me to become like You and to flee from all the wicked deceptions in this world. Amen.