Preparing for the Charge
Empty Forms – Part 1

Scripture Reading: 2 Timothy 3:1-9

Key Verse: 2 Timothy 3:5

…having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.

The Apostle Paul was noticing something in this young church of God, some learned how to look good but were lacking a real and consistent walk with God.  In other words, they were empty forms of godliness.  They lacked the power to live a life worthy of the Lord.  As Paul mentored Timothy, he listed some characteristics to watch for that would help identify this type of person.  Carefully read over this list, asking the Holy Spirit to open your spiritual eyes to any that might relate to you: lovers of themselves and of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, no self-control, brutal, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God.

            If the Holy Spirit tugged at your heart on any of these, be open to His voice.  God is lovingly speaking to you, wanting you to grow.  God seldom uses a big stick, but rather a still, small voice to guide us into right living.  The devil condemns us, trying to convince us to stop trying—to give up!  God’s voice convicts of sin but always with a goal of redemption.  God does not want us to be empty forms.  He wants us to be filled with His abundant life.  His children can be free from sin, living in victory over all temptation.  Don’t walk through your day empty.  (Continued)

Father, I want to be an authentic follower.  Forgive me of any un-Christ likeness in my life.  I will walk in victory.  In Jesus’ name, amen.