Scripture
They will maintain the outward appearance of religion but will have repudiated its power. So avoid people like these.
2 Timothy 3:5 NET
Observation
The worst thing ever is to have someone appear to live a holy and “religious” life on the outside, but in reality, it’s all for show.
It’s the worst thing because someone who trusts in the Lord has hope for the future. This world we live in is not our home. But the one who does it for show, is doing it for what they can get out of it in the here and now. Why? This world is so temporary.
Jesus wants to change your heart and mind. He wants you to be a “new creation.” The old things of your life should pass away and all things become new.
But if you haven’t truly given your heart to the Lord, if you haven’t truly made the decision to follow Jesus no matter what, then you lose out in both worlds, this and the next.
Jesus promised the Holy Spirit to empower you to live for God here and now. This brings a total change of heart and mind, a major transformation! Are you being transformed?
Paul told Timothy to avoid people who just appeared to be religious. What if Believers took that to heart? Would there be people you needed to avoid? Would you be able to discern who those people were? Would other Believers avoid you?
Allow Jesus, through the power of the Holy Spirit to transform your life. You can’t imagine what He has for you!
Application
You can’t live effectively for God if you don’t walk in the power of the Holy Spirit. You’ll look religious, but you will struggle.
Ask God to fill you with the power of the Holy Spirit so that you can start living a vibrant, joyful life in the Lord.
Don’t just look religious, be spirit-filled.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the Holy Spirit. Now empower your servant to live boldly for You.
Peace
Todd