In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following.
But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:6-8
Sometimes we get off track as Christian leaders. We can find ourselves talking about what Paul calls “worldly fables”. I loved listening to Aesop’s Fables because there was always a moral to the story or important truth revealed. Worldly fables are topics of discussion that do not have the capability to edify, they are without eternal significance and only confuse what would otherwise be, growing believers. Instead, every teacher of God’s word ought to have disciplines in our lives that promote the purpose of godliness. These could include prayer, solitude, reflection and contemplation, worship in song, scripture reading and memorization, study, and conversation with other believers. These disciplines will prepare us to be useful servants in God’s kingdom both now and in the next life.
Are there any distractions that make their way into my conversation that would qualify as worldly fables? What disciplines are ingrained into my weekly pattern that build me up to be a useful servant of God?
Lord, as this day begins, I thank You for your goodness and love. May I add to my life disciplines that are of eternal use and reject worldly fables fit only for old women. I pray that You will help my friend Mark with the desire of his heart, to reconnect with his long lost daughter. Would you restore Shirley’s energy and health and relieve any pain in breathing. Protect those I love and open Dorothy’s heart to Your reality again.
