Weekly Devotional

It's essential to remember that, despite past victories or moral challenges, we must remain fully devoted to aligning our lives with Christ in every aspect. We are called to run the race of faith, as emphasized in 1 Corinthians 9:24, pursuing personal growth with the Holy Spirit's guidance. Embracing the truths found in Scripture is crucial, shaping our understanding and inspiring us to adjust our actions to reflect Christ's righteousness, as noted in John 14:15. Our obedience to His teachings transforms our character, preparing us to be vessels for the Holy Spirit's work.

Sadly, many believers today choose to follow their own desires instead of the teachings of the Bible, often claiming to be Christians without genuinely living out that faith. I remind myself daily that life should not center around my wants; we are called to live according to God's will. We should never limit God to our narrow understanding, as He is the Potter shaping us as vessels in His hands (Isaiah 64:8).

Let us commit to not supporting any church leader who teaches or promotes ideas conflicting with God’s commands and values (2 Timothy 4:3-4). For those earnest in honoring our Heavenly Father and deepening our relationship with Him, I encourage you to rise above anxiety and fear (Philippians 4:6-7; Isaiah 41:10). Don’t let the false teachings of deceitful leaders keep you stuck, hindering spiritual growth with misguided doctrine. Remember, God is sovereign and in control of everything. He has not given us a spirit of fear, as stated in 2 Timothy 1:7. Through His grace, we walk by faith, assured that aligning with Him will lead to a righteous and steadfast path, ultimately bringing eternal life. Seeking guidance from those who highly regard God’s Word is crucial in growing our faith. Trust those led by His Sovereign will, as their teachings and lives reflect His Word.

Unfortunately, many are led astray by misguided practices or flawed doctrines they willingly accept. In 2 Thessalonians 2:3, we are warned, "Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition." This serves as both a blessing and a warning, indicating that these events are foretold. The impending apostasy—turning away from proper alignment with Christ—will prepare the way for the revelation of the Antichrist.

2 Timothy chapter 3 clearly outlines the "falling away," or apostasy. I encourage you to read it carefully and observe that the behaviors and attitudes it describes are evident in our world today. Other scriptures echo this warning, including Luke 18:8, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12, 1 Timothy 4:1-3, Hebrews 6:1-9 and 10:26-31, 38-39, 2 Peter 2:1-22, 1 John 4:1-6, Jude 4-19, and Revelation 3:14-18. This chapter also equips you with protection against the apostate problem through His holy Word (2 Timothy 3:10-17).

I urge you to study these passages diligently, seek His truth, and stand firm in your faith to be approved by Him (2 Timothy 2:15). While many might turn a blind eye to this call, I still rejoice! My relationship with Christ fuels my perseverance, and that persistence will bring rewards (Luke 18:1-8). Stay faithful in your walk with Christ, and don’t compromise with the world.

In conclusion, remember His words: “Not everyone who says, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and performed many wonders in Your name?' And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.” (Matthew 7:21-23).

Practice righteousness, regardless.

Have a blessed week.

Pastor Anthony