Connected in The Word 9-23-25
But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. 1 Timothy 6:11-12a
As a Lutheran pastor I feel the need to preface this devotion with this statement: YOU ARE SAVED BECAUSE OF GOD’S MERCY SHOWN TO YOU IN AND THROUGH THE LIFE, DEATH, AND RESURRECTION OF JESUS! NOTHING YOU DO EARNS YOU ETERNAL LIFE – IT’S ALL JESUS!
Ok, now that we’ve got that out of the way let’s continue. As a redeemed child of God, you will live this life constantly under attack. Your enemies are strong, formidable, and they know your every weakness. They don’t believe in taking prisoners – They’re out to destroy you. They are not easily recognizable since they cloak themselves in things that look good, helpful, and even beautiful. They are indeed wolves in sheep’s clothing. They will offer comfort, pleasure, and even community. Their weapons are like street drugs that offer an initial high but constantly leave you craving more, and before you know it their poison is killing you!
Your enemies are the devil, the temptations of sin in this world, and of course your very own sinful nature. Our sinful nature craves the things of this world that look good, feel good, and numb our feelings of doubt, shame, loneliness, guilt, and unworthiness. Paul reminds young Timothy to flee from these things. Our cravings for money, pleasure, and pain-free living can very easily lead us away from the Good News of Jesus! You have been snatched from the flames of hell and washed clean in the waters of Baptism. Don’t play with fire and don’t go swimming in the filth of sin. If you are reading this devotion and you feel like you are caught in the flames or sinking in sin – Go back and read the first paragraph again! The Gospel is for you!
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