Daily Reading: Romans 16
Scripture Focus: I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. (Romans 16:17-18)
Devotional Thought: We live in a world where we find it easy to be persuaded in many different areas. I think of the late-night commercials that try to sell you something you probably don’t need. The way they pitch the item and use all their fancy sales tactics we sometimes find ourselves calling the number on the screen or visiting a website to make a purchase. "But wait! If you call now, we'll double your order! That's right! Call now and you'll get two widgets for $19.95!"
This world tries to convince you that God is not the only way to get to Heaven and be saved. The Bible calls these people “False Prophets.” However, we as Christians and followers of God can sometimes get caught up in the “smooth talk and glowing words” used by the enemy. That is why the Bible tells us to do research on our own: “That very night the believers sent Paul and Silas to Berea. When they arrived there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth.” (Acts 17:10-11, NLT).
When we read books, or listen to sermons we should check the content of what is written or said and not be fooled by smooth style. Christians who study God’s Word will not be fooled, even though superficial listeners may easily be taken in.
I encourage you to do your own research. Make sure that what you are learning and being taught comes from the Holy Word and not just fancy words!
Pastor Chris Shallenberger
Prayer: Lord, we are your children living in a world that wants to grab and keep our attention on everything except you. Help us to stay focused on what is most important in our lives…YOU! I pray that when I read books and listen to sermons my heart would be challenged to dive into your Word deeper and make sure what I am hearing is supported by you and your Word. Develop me to be a true student of the Word of God!
Psalm of the Day: 14 The friendship of the LORD is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them his covenant. 15 My eyes are ever toward the LORD, for he will pluck my feet out of the net. 16 Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. 17 The troubles of my heart are enlarged; bring me out of my distresses. 18 Consider my affliction and my trouble, and forgive all my sins. 19 Consider how many are my foes, and with what violent hatred they hate me. 20 Oh, guard my soul, and deliver me! Let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in you. 21 May integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for you. 22 Redeem Israel, O God, out of all his troubles. (Psalms 25:14-22)
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