May 02, 2021
Greetings and blessings to all of you. In 1 Tim. 6:3-4 the Word of God says, “If anyone teaches different things and does not consent to healthy words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the teaching which is according to godliness, he is blinded with pride, understanding nothing, but is diseased with questionings and contentions of words, out of which come envy, strife, slanders and evil suspicions.” What are “healthy words?” The words of our Lord Jesus Christ are words of life. The healthy words of the Lord are the source of the teaching that is according to godliness. When the Lord’s words of life are taught particularly in certain aspects, they become the teaching that is according to godliness. The living word of the Lord always bring forth godliness. It is a life that lives Christ and expresses God in Christ. However, if we choose not to read the Word…. then our pride and self-conceit will blind us to the Truth. In the same book, Paul tells his protégé Timothy, “But you O man of God flee these things, and pursue, righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, meekness.” (vs.11). In this cancel culture society of today these terms have new “worldly” meanings. So as a follower of Christ you and I must pray for a ‘spirit of discernment’ as we interact with others. The Word of God teaches us who Christ is and how we should respond to him. In this age, a proper Christian life has three aspects (a)fighting the good fight against Satan and His kingdom of darkness for the interest of God’s kingdom (b) running the course for carrying out of God’s economy according to His eternal purpose (c)keeping the faith for participation in the divine riches in God’s economy. All of this cannot be known if the Word of God is not studied and rooted in your hearts as a life- giving force to guide and direct the life God has given you and me. Consider this…If the Word of God is not read and followed… “how can we be the light of the world…how can we let our light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven?” (Matt. 5:14,16). How can we minister with non believes about the hope and peace in our heart when we hear of them having anxiety, fear, anger? (1Pet.3:15) All the world can offer are counterfeits that only provide temporary relief. But the Christ in you ..is the Hope of Glory. Saints Glorify God by reading/studying His Word.
With the Love of Christ
First Lady Vivian C. Currie
Pastor ALC