See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition. – Colossians 2:8
When is the last time a really good idea came to you? Did you realize it right away or was it the result of much thought and discovery? Good ideas arrive in many forms, but one thing is always true… a genuinely good idea aligns with the character of a good God!
Defining “good” has been a philosophical quagmire since the beginning of human thought. Without delving too deep into the morass, those who believe good is what makes you happy can quickly fall into subjective living, and those who believe good is what feels right also fall easily into moral decay. The further you go into philosophy, the deeper the opportunity to discover the only measure of good (or a good idea) is the existence of an ultimate source of good. Jesus identified that source plainly, “No one is good except God alone” (Luke 18:19).
The world system, in its sin-bound, misery-laden perspective, entices you to daily pursue what appears to bring happiness or feel wonderful. Yet, the God-seeker knows, just because it feels good, or appears good, does not mean it is good!
The only way to accurately determine what is good is by going to God. Pray, read His Word, and ask Him to guide you by His Spirit. Then assess the quality of your ideas against God’s character. You will soon discover what the worldly philosopher cannot duplicate: spiritual discernment! Pray for those in government office, both local and national, to know what is good and find knowledge by seeking God.
Today’s Verse: Colossians 2:8
See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Proverbs 2:1-8
My son, if you receive my words
and treasure up my commandments with you,
2 making your ear attentive to wisdom
and inclining your heart to understanding;
3 yes, if you call out for insight
and raise your voice for understanding,
4 if you seek it like silver
and search for it as for hidden treasures,
5 then you will understand the fear of the Lord
and find the knowledge of God.
6 For the Lord gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;
7 he stores up sound wisdom for the upright;
he is a shield to those who walk in integrity,
8 guarding the paths of justice
and watching over the way of his saints.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
