October 24, 2024 - 1 Timothy 4

Paul writes a really interesting section in chapter 4 in which he warns about those, in the latter days, who will tell tales and promote myths and just generally confuse and misdirect people.  Some will actually “desert the faith and occupy themselves with deceiving spirits and demonic teachings” (4:1).  They will come up with all sorts of rules, which God has not given and which he opposes:  rules about marriage and foods and ultimately prohibiting many good things that “God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth” (4:3).  Paul encourages Timothy, and us, to point these things out to our brothers and sisters in Christ and to “reject those myths fit only for the godless and gullible” (4:7) while training ourselves for godliness.  This is a good word for us, today:  Be watchful.  Reject falsehoods and believe and stand on the truth for “godliness is valuable in every way.  It holds promise for the present life and for the life to come” (4:8).  Here is true wisdom.

How happy are all they who hear

true Wisdom’s guiding voice;

and who her understanding make

their early, only choice.

For she has treasures greater far

than east or west unfold;

and her rewards more precious are

than all their stores of gold.   --Michael Bruce (1796)