“I am telling you this so that no one will be able to deceive you with persuasive arguments”

I recently had a conversation about truth in advertising and the reliance that consumers have on corporations keeping themselves in check as it relates to telling the truth about their products and services.  It seems once every few years there will be news about a company that is making false claims and their advertising comes under scrutiny or is recalled.  What is amazing about this is that so many times the advertising messages are very far-fetched and it seems clear that they cannot be true, but still we purchase over and over as if our sensibilities have been left behind.  It could be lots of reasons, but one is that the advertising is so persuasive. Madison Avenue (and all other advertising companies) have our number.  They know what we fall for, what makes us cry, what our insecurities are, what are our fears, what makes us feel powerful, strong and attractive.  They know us, at least in the general, and they get to us over and over again. That said, we as business people have to be sure that we don’t allow our marketing and advertising teams to make up a story that is not true. Each of us need to temper our persuasiveness to be sure we are always telling the truth and being consistent in that truth.

Our world of work, society and people all around us are constantly trying to persuade us to to do, try, and change. As believers, especially in our workplaces we have to be able to stand true and not fall for the persuasive arguments that counter our beliefs and convictions.  This week we will all be faced with these tests and Paul tells us to stand strong.  Consider today that the power of persuasion cannot overpower the Holy Spirit and that He will be there with us to countermand any persuasions if we only rely on Him!  Be strong this week!

Reference: Colossians 2:4