[03/20/2023 “teEn-MAIL”]
There are times we find it necessary to hold back our tongue to keep us from speaking words that may hurt others, create conflict, or bring us embarrassment and regret. However, we also need to remain mindful of holding back our feet from taking us in the wrong direction as that too can lead into conflict and regret. As one of the psalmists stated. . .
“(101) I hold back my feet from every evil way, in order to keep your word. (102) I do not turn aside from your rules, for you have taught me.” (Psalm 119:101-102)
As we would do well to follow James’ urging regarding our words (James 1:19-20), let us be duly vigilant in keeping God’s Word; allowing it to be taken in and implanted with us. (James 1:21) This will aid in holding back our steps for leading away from His righteous path.
In his letter to Christians at Ephesus, Paul exhorted. . .
“(17) Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. (18) They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. (19) They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. (20) But that is not the way you learned Christ! — (21) assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, (22) to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, (23) and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, (24) and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:17-24 ESV)
What is marking our life walk? Holding back our feet from straying is a sign of keeping what God has been saying! May we remain of those who have properly learned Christ and are walking in Him!
Have a great day REMAINING ONE TAUGHT BY GOD!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
