“These are the things you are to teach and insist on. If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, they are conceited and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife malicious talk, evil suspicions and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.” 1 Timothy 6:2b-5
Dear Jesus, Because the faith you have taught us is wrapped up in words, it’s easy to get derailed into thinking that if I have the correct doctrine then I have the correct life. But here you link the truth I believe to the life you lead me to live. If I simply seek to be right in my head without willingly allowing my life to come under your leadership. I am deceiving myself into thinking knowledge defines faith. I can also get caught up thinking it pays to be right. All of this is sterile hairsplitting that does nothing for my heart and life. Oh, Jesus, spare me from shallow theological debates that lead nowhere in my sanctified life. Instead help me to practice my faith in love for you and people. Amen.
God’s teaching about Christ always leads us to behave like him in ways we never imagined.