Word of the Week

1/2/10

I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naïve people. Rom. 16:17-18 (NIV)

Paul tells Christians to become grounded in our faith, to know and understand the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Then we are to measure everything against this teaching to see whether it is from God or not. Paul warns that there will be many who will come against the gospel. We should be watchful and not be deceived, and then we should keep away from those who would lead us away from Jesus. Some will come into our midst seeking to cause division among fellow Christians so that we will become weakened in our walk and in our unity. Stand fast in God’s truth especially when man’s wisdom is being elevated above God’s wisdom. Some will try to put added requirements, or works, as a means to salvation. Be careful to serve Jesus Christ only, not doing works to make ourselves or others look more righteous through our own efforts. Smooth talk may make evil sound good and righteousness sound like condemnation and intolerance. Flattery is seductive to us and can lead us step by step away from God’s truth and His ways if we are not firmly grounded.

We must be vigilant in our faith and in our walk, becoming mindful of the first subtle deceptions which try to creep into our thoughts. We must become more discerning about whom we listen to and allow to influence us. God’s word must be the basis of our thoughts, words, and deeds.

PRAYER: O Lord God, I come before You desiring to love and serve only You. Please give me clear discernment to recognize divisions, obstacles, smooth words, flattery, and people who would lead me away from You. Help me to keep away from such people. Strengthen me to stand fast. Give me wisdom and understanding to do Your will today.