Guest devotion by Travis Patterson, orchestra teacher and Bible study leader at First Baptist Church El Paso, Texas.
Good Day Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
False teachers, wolves in sheep clothing are out there seeking our attention. They will seek to appeal to all our senses! They have been influencing our culture for generations. While they have made great progress in their so-called intellectual achievements,[1] there is one thing they will not do and that is to “Hold fast to the head”. We have fallen victim to their philosophies and maybe even promoted their philosophies but we no longer need to do so. God has given us His Word[2] and His Spirit.[3] He has also given us each other.[4] If we will read His Word, trust the Holy Spirit to guide us, and listen to godly brothers and sisters who will help us confirm God’s leadership then we will learn how to stand firm and hold fast! Holding fast means that we place God’s Word as our highest and most reliable authority.[5] Many Christians say they trust God’s Word, but rely on their own understanding. The result is living by their fleshly desires. Lying or complaining for example becomes acceptable in certain conditions. God’s Word says put off all falsehood and stop complaining! So how do we achieve this kind of holiness and blamelessness? The answer is simple but to many offensive. Realize that there is nothing good in our flesh[6] and believe that God has put His Spirit in us that is perfect in righteousness and holiness.[7]
Place your total trust in God, not your own self, and continue to mature spiritually as you strive to be more like Christ!
“And not holding fast to the head, from whom the entire body, being supplied and held together by the joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.” (Colossians 2:19 – NASB)
At the Father's Feet 