1 Timothy 4:4-10

Everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed.  Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.  For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.  This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance.  That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe.

Every day we let either the world or God’s Word dictate and shape our thoughts.  Although most of us are quick to say we believe the Bible, at times our actions indicate that we’re influenced by something else.

Where do we go, most often, when we want advice about a big decision or lifestyle choice?  Websites, blogs, and the media offer a lot of information that can be either beneficial or harmful.  Coworkers, family, and friends also provide counsel and advice, but do they rely on worldly reasoning or godly wisdom?  The best resource for true guidance is Scripture, but we often rely on human intelligence and personal preferences instead.

Hebrews 4:12 describes God’s Word as “living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword” and piercing into the deepest parts of our souls.  Those who are reluctant to surrender to its penetrating work are essentially rejecting the Lord’s guidance by their refusal to listen and obey.  But those who willing accept Scriptures teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16), will discover the riches of a life of faith.  That will be the moment that faith becomes conviction and conviction becomes action.

Letting the Word be our guide may require costly changes in our thoughts, attitudes, and behavior.  However, any adjustments or disciplines that produce godliness will result in eternal profit.  And it all starts with going to Scripture first for direction.  “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness…”