Self-deception is rampant. I want to look beyond myself and my pride so I can discover truth (whether I like it or not). I want to live in reality, not in self-righteousness. Am I a leader? I don’t know. What do you think?

In contemporary society’s heavy fog of constantly spotlighted feelings, opinions, desires, distortion, deception, cravings, and confusion, many people arrogantly claim that they are right and anybody who disagrees with them is wrong. They think that they are good people but that the people who see things differently than they do are bad people. Let’s get real.

There is some good and there is some evil in every individual person (including you). It’s easy to see the evil in people who you see as a threat, but all that does is increase your fear. Instead, first begin to recognize, attack, and overcome the roots of the evil fog in yourself. Then you can begin to see the good in your opponents and to love your enemies so that they can see the good in you.

Anger intensifies day after day. It grows into fear and insecurity. It sees people as threats. It morphs into hostility and a desire for retaliation. Anger justifies itself. It ignores logic and rationality. It inspires insults and accusations. It makes feelings and opinions more important than reality. It can suddenly lead to violence — even to angry mob violence.

That’s why the Bible says, “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” When anger is carried overnight it gets stronger. Imagine how it grows if carried over months, years, and decades. If you are angry, don’t be its slave. Obey the Bible. Get rid of your anger before sunset tonight. Then you will be able to see things much more clearly.

Anger distorts truth. Without truth we are slaves to falsehood. Break free from anger’s bondage. “The truth will set you free.” Humbly seek it.