Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read 2 Timothy 3:1-5.
This passage should cause us some concern. As I read about the poor values and bad behaviors shown by others as described in the first four verses, my first thought was that these were people who do not know God at all. Then Paul says these are people having “a form of godliness but denying its power.” This implies that these people may be in the church. You know what is even more concerning? These people could be me!
Having the “form of godliness” means honoring the rituals and outward appearance of having religion, and “denying its power” says that we have not taken it to heart. Real faith changes us, it changes our desires and our priorities. The people described in this passage may be exhibiting what Dietrich Bonhoeffer called “cheap grace,” shallow religion aiming for easy forgiveness without true repentance and costly discipleship. When we truly believe in Jesus Christ and accept him into our hearts, he takes up residence in us, guiding us and shaping our values and priorities.
Personal Worship Option:
Almighty God, help me to not be like the people described in this passage nor allow such people to influence me, but rather help me to conduct myself humbly, to walk in your ways, and to do my best to live as Christ teaches us. Amen.
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