For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world by the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and are overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first. For it would be better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn away from the holy commandment handed on to them. It has happened to them according to the true proverb, “A dog returns to its own vomit,” and, “A sow, after washing, returns to wallowing in the mire.”
I have heard amazing stories of how dogs have gotten separated or stranded hundreds of miles away from home, and then, miraculously come home. Its heartwarming. But, what is equally heart-breaking, is that false teachers and others forsake their salvation and return to a life of sensuality, greed, false teaching and enticing others. Its sad, but it happens. Peter says, this state is worse than the first when they were unsaved and unaware. Scary!
Is my salvation as precious and pure as when I first believed? Am I tempted at all to return to the former things?
God, I thank you that the things of the world do not have a hold on me. Please protect me from the arrogance and self-sufficiency that can lead to false teaching. May my words, thoughts and deeds be consistent with Christ. I wonder what You have planned for today? I want to see Your kingdom come.
