Quote for the Day
“…everything God created is good…”
Today's Prayer
This week ask God to be with those at home longing for their loved ones who are traveling. Ask God to remind them of His deep love no matter what the circumstances.
1st Timothy 4:1-8
1st Timothy 4:1-8 (NIV)1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. 2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. 3 They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. 4 For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, 5 because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. 6 If you point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, brought up in the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. 7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.
Message
This week we see the outcome of leadership as explained in chapter 3. Paul continues to give instructions to Timothy on the way to exercise his role as a leader in the church. The focus begins with a reminder of the reality of life: not all will follow. This is very difficult for many to accept, especially leaders. The goal, hope and desire of a leader (and of God as we saw last week) is to see people grow and strengthen their commitment to the cause. Paul points out the fact that, “…some will abandon the faith…” It is important to see how Paul continues, because although he wants Timothy (and us) to know the potential results, he takes this time to remind us of the reasons some fall from their faith. They are caught up with and believe deceiving spirits and hypocritical liars. It is important to remember that ALL messages must be looked at in light of the TRUTH of God’s word; otherwise we might be tempted to turn away from His truth. What is the best defense in this situation? A great offense, as shown in verse 7, “Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.” Easily said, but only commitment and discipline will allow us to see what God desires. This week see what is causing your heart to be confused, what godless myth you continue to allow to be seen or heard in your mind, and ask God to replace it with HIS truth.
