The Wisdom of the Proverbs:
Proverbs 25:28 (NLT)
A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.
The Encouragement of the Psalms:
Psalm 89:46-48 (NLT)
O LORD, how long will this go on? Will you hide yourself forever? How long will your anger burn like fire?
Remember how short my life is, how empty and futile this human existence!
No one can live forever; all will die. No one can escape the power of the grave.
The Hope of the Old Testament:
Psalm 37:37-40 (NLT)
Look at those who are honest and good, for a wonderful future awaits those who love peace.
But the rebellious will be destroyed; they have no future.
The LORD rescues the godly; he is their fortress in times of trouble.
The LORD helps them, rescuing them from the wicked. He saves them, and they find shelter in him.
The Gospel Message:
1 Timothy 6:2-5 (NLT)
If the masters are believers, that is no excuse for being disrespectful. Those slaves should work all the harder because their efforts are helping other believers who are well loved. Teach these things, Timothy, and encourage everyone to obey them.
Some people may contradict our teaching, but these are the wholesome teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. These teachings promote a godly life.
Anyone who teaches something different is arrogant and lacks understanding. Such a person has an unhealthy desire to quibble over the meaning of words. This stirs up arguments ending in jealousy, division, slander, and evil suspicions.
These people always cause trouble. Their minds are corrupt, and they have turned their backs on the truth. To them, a show of godliness is just a way to become wealthy.
Observation:
Now and then we need to take a long pause and examine our hearts to see how close we are to becoming more holy as God is holy. The Apostle Paul is giving guidance in this passage of what the attitude of Christ-followers should look like in our daily walk.
Whose example are you following when you argue with and condemn others about the Bible? Do you think that through your arguments that you can fix people or change lives?
This admonition is intended for self-examination and not for condemnation. It’s about having the mind of Christ, and the attitude of a heart that has faith in God. I’m so glad that changing lives is above my pay grade, and that God has reserved this work for Himself.
Prayer:
Father God, we are so thankful for the privilege of being called children of God. Father, we are grateful that you provide for all of needs through Christ Jesus who lives in us and has promised that He would never leave us or forsake us. Father, help to not act like a practical atheist in our attitudes and in our obedience to your will and to your way.
—
1 Samuel 3:10 (NLT)
10 And the LORD came and called as before, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel replied, “Speak, your servant is listening.”
Read all the Daily Devotionals by Herb Cotton; click here:
http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/
Listen to all of the Daily Devotionals by Herb Cotton; click here:
https://soundcloud.com/praying-for-you-ministry
