Scripture: 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 (1Timothy 4:1)
Background: It’s something I noticed a while back and even though I’ve read this scripture before it never truly resonated with me.
When you hear influencers speaking about God they qualify their statement with “the universe, spirit, or whatever” because they don’t want to annoy nonbelievers.
I’m concerned that even Christians are falling into this trap. The line between what they believe and what the world teaches is blurry.
But how do you keep your beliefs pure in a world where it seems only the popular kids win?
I know that “coming out from among them” may be difficult when the very people whose support you have don’t believe what you do.
But this is no time to deny the power of Jesus Christ. We need Him now more than ever. We don’t need to fit in. We just need to love as he instructed us to do.
“Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son.” (1 John 2:22).
When we dabble in “spirits” we can alienate the Holy Spirit.
“Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourself unclean by them: I am the Lord your God”.
~ Leviticus 19:31
Personal Application: If we love one another and our life demonstrates that love, we don’t need to prove we fit in or belong. God is your provider. Not people. Remember whose you are.
Don’t be afraid to stand for what you believe. Because if the life you live doesn’t support your belief how good a witness can you be?
Additional Reading: “All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit. Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” (Proverbs 16:23).
“Through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared, who forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.
For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, 5 for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.” (1 Timothy 4:2-4).
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16).
