January 8, 2024 -- I Timothy 4:15 -- Lady Wisdom calls to you to leave Wayward Folly

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

15 Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress.
I Timothy 4:15 ESV

During the pandemic, it was reported that students were on their smart phones on average more than seven hours a day. Prior to the pandemic, students were on their smart phones an average of three and a half hours a day. Nearly one third of Canadians watch sports every day. Statistics like these show how people practice the ways of the culture, immersing themselves in them.

By way of contrast, a Christian is one who practices godliness. One Who sets an example in speech and in conduct, in love and in purity and faith. The practice of such things is what he is steeped in. Those who have been graced by God the Father through the redeeming work of Jesus Christ are fascinated and captivated by the all things that pertain to God.

Let’s face it, evil and wickedness are still a temptation. According to Proverbs the woman Folly is seductive, she is wooing the simple minded to leave all sense and all wisdom and shack up with her for a night. The warning of Proverbs 9 is that her guests are in the depths of the grave. They are headed for death.

Wisdom is a lady. Wisdom is preparing men and women for the moment when the siren song of Folly’s temptation would seek to sway their resolve. Practice wisdom. Immerse yourself in what is pure, what is love as the Father in heaven demonstrated love in Christ and conduct yourself in the way of Christian faith. Holy habits are momentum which help you to pass by the allures of temptation so that you will see your progress in holiness and those around you will also note your progress in holiness. Follow wisdom.

Father in heaven thank You for the gracious gift of Jesus Christ—in Whom we have grace and mercy and peace. By the Spirit’s presence in our lives train us in words of faith and in good doctrine. Guard us, Spirit of the Living God, from silly myths and the deceptions of Folly. Mighty God, Source of every good gift, our hope is set on You, the Savior of all people. Give us holy boldness to call others away from loitering at the door of Folly’s house. Spirit strengthen us so that by our example and joy, those being bedazzled by Folly be drawn instead to Lady Wisdom. Thank You, Mighty God that wisdom is life in Christ fully trustworthy now and also for the life to come. Amen.

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