Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.
1 Timothy 4:16

Here we have a reminder that our salvation depends on staying close to the one who saves us.

“Keep a close watch on yourself,” He reminds me, “on how you live and on how you’re influencing others by word or example,” because my sinful heart is prone to wander away from Him and fall into deception and confusion.

In fact, this chapter begins by saying: Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared…
1 Timothy 4:1-2

None of us is alone in this life, even when we think we are. What you do and say can influence others to hold to the right path, or lead them astray. You never know who or how many are watching and following your lead.

Lord, help me to keep a close watch on myself so that by word and deed I teach what’s true to Your Word. Keep me close, today, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Pastor Dan Giles