Finding the Power
Refusing Power – Part 1

Scripture Reading:  2 Timothy 3:1-9

Key Verse: 2 Timothy 3:5a

…having a form of godliness but denying its power.

In the first nine verses of Second Timothy chapter three the apostle describes the way people will be in the “last days.”  In our printed key verse Paul writes that they will have a form of godliness.  In other words, they learn how to look good at least to the people around them.  A form of godliness probably includes going to church, singing the songs, and giving a token offering.  It looks like they are doing everything right.  Unfortunately, as the apostle reminds us, they look good but their “spiritual battery” is dead—they lack power.

            I can’t imagine any of us wanting to fall into this category of people.  It is my guess that those who do, do so slowly and almost unthinkingly.  I say almost because I believe the Holy Spirit is faithful to give warnings along the journey.  Unheeded warnings result in trouble every time.  This series on spiritual jumpstarts is trying to make sure none of us end up with a dead spiritual battery!

            Our scripture is very clear about the characteristics of a dead spiritual battery.  Can you see any of these signs in yourself?  Paul’s list includes: lovers of money, unforgiving, without self-control, and lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.  These signs and the others Paul listed are to help us spot dead spots in our spiritual lives and do a midcourse correction.  Is your spiritual battery lacking divine power?  (Continued)

Father, help me to be honest about my spiritual condition.  Grant me your perspective and wisdom.  I want to be filled with your divine power.  In Jesus’ name, amen.