Listen

There will come a time when people will not tolerate sound teaching. They will collect teachers who say what they want to hear because they are self-centered. They will turn their back on the truth and turn to myths. But you must keep control of yourself in all circumstances. Endure suffering, do the work of a preacher of the good news, and carry out your service fully.

2 Timothy 4:3-5

Think

When was the last time you asked someone for advice? Sometimes, rather than asking the other person’s opinion, we’re actually seeking commiseration or perhaps confirmation that a plan we’ve already decided on is a good idea. As someone who verbally processes her problems, I am guilty of going to others for advice when really all I want to do is vent. I sometimes become frustrated when the advice I’m given is not advice I want to hear. Because of this, I know well my impulse to “collect teachers who say what [I] want to hear” (2 Timothy 4:3). However, this is not what God wants for me — or for you.

We are not meant to walk our Christian journey alone. We do it accompanied by the Spirit, in the company of others. Our lone voice or opinion should never be our only guide – neither should we only seek out voices that mimic our own.

Megan McDermott

Pray

God, our greatest adviser, help me sort through all the voices that surround me, so that I might pick up on what is loving and truthful. Show me what comes from you. Amen.

Go

Understanding God's instructions can be complicated. Do not be so overwhelmed that you cannot act.

Love of God and others — these are the heart of God's instructions.

Follow love today.