Bible Reading: 2 Timothy 2:16
If someone tells you that it is hot outside when in fact the temperature is below freezing, will that person’s words make their message true?
No. No matter how convincing they may sound, the message is wrong. It is untrue. If you listen to them and allow them to convince you that it is hot outside, you will be very cold if you go out in shorts and a T-shirt.
In 2 Timothy 2:16 Paul tells us to “Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly.” Filling your mind with “godless chatter” will lead to wrong thoughts and wrong thoughts will eventually lead to wrong actions. Listening while people belittle someone else because they look different, are less financially well off, or have an “undesirable” job, is wrong. Listening to gossip, rumors, myths, and misinformation is wrong, too.
Listening to “godless chatter” is always wrong and it can be hurtful or even dangerous. Avoid the sources of wrong thoughts – lies, half-truths, gossip, and other “godless chatter.”
Instead, do things God’s way and fill your mind with right thoughts -–facts and truth. When you do, you will be a step closer to being like Jesus.
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me – put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:8 & 9
Prayer: Heavenly Father, point out to me when I am beginning to listen to a wrong thought so that I can avoid it and replace it in my mind with a right thought. In Jesus’ name. Amen.