“Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons…
“If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed. Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.
“Command and teach these things. Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have… Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” 1 Timothy 4:1,6-14a,15-16
Devote. Put before you. Train. Follow. Toil. Strive. Command. Teach. Set an example. Exhort. Practice. Keep close watch. Persist. Could Paul have been more clear in his admonition to Timothy that he could never let up? Constant, vigilant, committed implementation of God’s commands was the only way to remain faithful, fruitful, and effectively fulfilling his call. He interwove warning with direction, fully preparing his son in the faith for the pressures of ministry and opposition.
Later times are upon us. Deceitful spirits and demonic teachings abound, coming at us through every kind of medium and impression. Evil influences press from all sides, working to distort truth, spoil devotion, and destroy faith. The constant barrage is ample reason for our vigilance in spiritual training and keeping that training on track to carry each day’s burdens and keep heading in the right direction. If we do not watch and are not ready, we will fall weak before the enemy.
It’s vital we understand the devil’s power to destroy. If we own a complacent, casual attitude toward him, or wrestle with habits that give him sway, pray for discernment and keen sensitivity to temptation. Study his wiles and be alert to situations that fool the mind, titillate emotions, and open doors to sin, and take caution to avoid and combat them. (Ephesians 6:10-18; 1 Peter 5:8)
How are we putting into practice these verbs? How readily is God’s truth defining the track of our guidelines, nourishment, and impetus for action? If hearts are devoted, does our will match the desire? What are we daily doing to train in godliness, to apply the Scriptures in conversation, decision, and work? From whom do we attentively learn, and for whom are we an available example? (Colossians 3:16-17)
Lord, train me daily within Your truths in what I think, say, and do, so others learn that living for you is worth every effort.
As the rain and snow 