June 22, 2011 (II Kings 8-9; II Chronicles 21; I Timothy 4)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching;” I Timothy 4:16 NASB
Observation: We often focus on others when it comes to the issue of false teaching. Somehow we extinguish ourselves from that category. Here we read Paul’s instruction to Timothy to pay attention. To what? Yourself and what your teaching!
Application: “Do as I say, not as I do” the famous last words of a false teacher. I prefer to call them hypocrites! It’s one thing to teach others, it’s another to live it yourself. The only way you will be successful in life is to “discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness” vs 7. If we can ever learn to examine ourselves and verify all of our thoughts and beliefs with God’s word we would indeed become a godly influence for the world to see.
Prayer: Dear heavenly father, I thank you today for your many blessings. Praise you for your mercy and grace. Worship you because of who you are! Guide me as I look into your word for direction, correction and reproof. Help me pay close attention to myself and what I teach. May it be your gospel and message only that come from my lips and life. Cleanse me and establish my heart. In Jesus name, Amen.