Guidance from the Spirit & Word

1 Timothy 4

Inspired thots

The chapter begins with 'the Spirit clearly says...'
1) it is important to HEAR what the Spirit says; for He says it clearly. I should be able to hear Him.

~ the Spirit tells of things in the future; things to come - 'in later times...'
I need to take heed; take alert.
~ Deception;
~ Extremism; not to marry; not to eat certain foods

2) the POWER of God's word and Prayer
~ consecration of everything God created so that I can enjoy
~ PRAY according to God's word and will, and it shall be done

3) TRAIN up to Godliness
~ nothing comes automatically; salvation has to be worked out after receiving it freely
~ deception can be thwarted if trained to recognise it
~ consecration can be achieved when trained to embrace it through the word of God

4) HOPE in GOD
~ if that is lost, one is deceived easily
~ if that is focused, one continues on the right path

5) PROGRESS in my life
~ as a testimony
~ effort must be put in: alertness, study the Scriptures