And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. – Deuteronomy 6:6
Our reflection this week is from Rev. Calvin Tuininga and based on the Scripture reading in Ephesians 4:11-16
In these verses, God is not just speaking to parents, but to the covenant community, the church. Notice that “hearts” is plural in the verse above. Today we tend to think more individualistically. In a Biblical view, God is in Jesus, saving for Himself a people, a bride, His church! There is a great emphasis on the unity of believers in a common faith and purpose. This training disciples, including children, is a mutual responsibility. This is why He has given pastors and teachers to unite us all as followers who reflect Jesus.
In 2 Timothy 2:2, Timothy is told to teach other men what he had been taught, so they, in turn, will be able to teach others. In 2 Timothy 4, he is to continue in what he has learned, (the Scriptures), which are able to make him wise: for salvation, … and are useful for teaching rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
These passages teach the church must not only proclaim the truth, but teach it in a way so people will be able to repeat it to others and always be able to give an answer for the hope that is within them. Thus the goal of the church is to have a vibrant educational ministry. Never shun this ministry, but utilize it. Attend worship, but also be involved in education so you might be fully equipped for ministry.
Pray for the educational ministry of the church. Pray for ways you can be involved in this ministry. Pray for those who teach others in the way of faith.
Rev. Calvin Tuininga is the pastor emeritus of the Covenant United Reformed Church in Pantego, NC. This daily devotional is also available in a print edition you can buy at Nearer to God Devotional.
THOUGHT TO REMEMBER: Say goodbye to the voices in your head that tell you you are incapable of doing something or being someone.
The Light 
All true, and yet…. the Thought to Remember reminds me of those who have chosen to believe, if they can think it, justify it, wish it were so, it must be God – to me, for me, (myself, not saying anyone else needs do such and such) if a thought keeps coming to me that I can do/should do such and such, but I try over and over and it never turns out well (sans R&D on build/skills) I personally figure God is trying to save me from myself and I need to address my inner motivations – LOL – I ONLY feel this way after years of being on the receiving end of folks who ‘hear the voice in their heads” and mistake it for God, instead of their own ego blathering on – which my ego does sometimes, too, in all honesty – 🙂
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Discernment is certainly needed. It’s a fine line between God’s voice and us trying to make it God’s voice. I hear you.
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Yup – if I’m in doubt, I assume it’s ‘me being egotistical’ and await further insight – – LOL
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