Nov 19

There is an encouraging footnote that needs to be added to all of this talk about being a dirty or clean vessel for use by the Lord.

In that passage of Scripture that we have been examining regarding this, 2 Timothy 2:22 says that we are to do our part by fleeing sin and pursuing righteousness. But then it goes on to add a very important point that too often is overlooked by God's people seeking to obey him in this matter as in all else they do in their lives.

Verse 22 concludes that we are to do all these things not only in our individual lives but with others, as a group, a church, called to holiness of living. We are to pursue these things not just alone, by ourselves, but to pursue them "along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart."

So many of the things we have been talking about are wrapped up in this final admonition. Using the phrase "call on the Lord" reminds us that we have no power to do all these things on our own but must seek the Lord and his power to accomplish this. The matter of purity also is mentioned again.

The passage then goes on to mention yet another issue that has been raised, the matter of words and what we say. Verse 23 says not to have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because we know that they produce quarrels. Yet how quickly we find ourselves ready to argue with others, even in the church, because we are in this together, as a group, and not solely as individuals.

The very thing that we need, strength and encouragement from each other in order to do battle with the enemy and stand up to him, is turned into one of his weapons against us because of words and because we are in such close association with one another. That is why we are encouraged to seek "righteousness, faith, love and peace" as we move forward together in the battle.

Scripture for today: 2 Timothy 4:16-18
Thought for today: The very thing that provides encouragement and strength for me in the battle, the church, can also be a source of discouragement and weakening.
Prayer for today: Lord, help me to love my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Don't let the enemy break us up, for I know that then we will be weaker as we battle him alone. Grant me the wisdom and love to stand with my brothers and sisters in Christ against the enemy, and not let my heart turn hard and turn them into the enemy.

NOV 19