Daily Devotionals by Ardith Keef

     You must choose who you listen to.
     If you listen to everything that everyone says, you are simply being  passive.
What does Paul tell Timothy?  He is implicitly clear.  He wanted Timothy to
exercise restraint and he forbade Timothy to listen to those who had an agenda of
their own.
     For example, there are many who relish arguing tiny points of doctrine.  It
becomes some kind of intellectual sparring, and they only feel satisfied when
others are confused, or when they elicit an agreement.
     Others love to talk against believers.  Or unbelievers.  They are chronic
complainers and their habit is to find fault.
     Others are totally wrapped up in themselves.  Their goal is personal
attention and relief.
      There is hope for everyone.
      But as a Soldier of The Cross, you must obey the Word of God.  Do not let
sentimentality or false guilt assuage you into disobedience.
     Stand before Him.
     He will give you discernment if you are available.