Be careful what you hear - test it

"You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also".         2 Timothy 2:1-2.  NKJV

Despite being held chained in a dark, smelly prison, Paul never lost courage or his love and dedication for Jesus. In fact, he was working while he was in there, writing letters of encouragement and sending teachings. He was able to write to Timothy to be strong in the grace of Jesus Christ, because he was writing from experience. That is the difference. Many can say things to us but lack the experience and so, we need to be alert to what we hear and test things. This doesn't mean that we should refuse to believe someone but, some things that we hear sometimes don't seem quite right. At times like this, if it has resulted from a one to one situation, then think it through and pray about it before you act on what was said. If what you hear was from the front of the church, many others may have a problem with what has been said. This doesn't mean that we should start a debate that can turn into rebellion if we're not careful. If necessary, quietly mention it to a leader, if he hasn't heard himself and then don't get involved in what others may be saying or wanting you to give your thoughts about it. Things like this can split a church. When I hear someone preach, whether it be in a church or, I read in a book, if I don't agree with what is said, I decide not to take any notice of it and just pray that God will handle it.

Paul touches on this in verse 2 'And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also'. Because of the phrase 'among many witnesses', Paul was saying very much the same thing. Commit it to figures of authority if you need to and then let them handle it. It makes so much sense. 

We must remember that we are in the Army of Jesus Christ, and as a soldier, you may be shot at many times. Verse 4 reads, 'No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life.' Therefore, we need to remember that we are all human and we make mistakes. Even well-seasoned preachers and teachers can say the wrong thing while they're in the throng of a session. So, enough said on this subject; don't become too involved, let leadership sort it out.

However, some people are out to cause disruption and will cause unrest and start digging away at an individual or perhaps the whole church. Just by their attitude, they are easy to spot. Don't get involved with them. God will soon move them on if we don't give them any fuel for their fire. 

So be careful what you hear, test it if you are not sure about the content. Don't try to hold a battle yourself. Go through the proper channels and you will be qualifying your role as a Soldier in the Army of Jesus Christ!

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now

Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. In Jesus' Name. Amen
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