Three Keys For Holy Living! (part 4 of 4)

Noting further Paul's exhortation to Timothy we read. . .
"(22) So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, ALONG WITH THOSE WHO CALL ON THE LORD FROM A PURE HEART." ( 2 Timothy 2:22 ESV)

The third key to keeping the door open to growth in holiness is maintaining fellowship with the right people; with those of kindred spirit. Though we cannot completely isolate ourselves from the world -- thus making it impossible to be the influencing salt and light we have been called to be ( Matthew 5:13-16) -- we still are to be mindful of the specialness of the relationship we share with other believers. ( Galatians 6:10)

To help us in continuing on the right path we must REMAIN IN COMMUNITY WITH THE SAINTS. The preceding verse in Paul's letter exhorted to separate from that which is "dishonorable" ( 2 Timothy 2:21 ESV), while here the urging is toward maintaining FELLOWSHIP with the Lord's people. Such helps us remain stronger and for our life to be of "honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work." ( 2 Timothy 2:21 ESV) Our connection with one another helps us to remain focused on the right things and walking in the right way. Also, the work we do together can yield a greater return than that which is done alone. It's A TEAM THING. We need to keep running with THE RIGHT CROWD. We must stay with the group because we need each other, being "MEMBERS ONE OF ANOTHER" ( Romans 12:5 ESV) in the body of Christ. (read Romans 12:4-5 and 1 Corinthians 12:12-27)

Just as "bad company ruins good morals" ( 1 Corinthians 15:33), so FELLOWSHIP with others in the Lord provides godly benefit. That is why the Hebrew writer urged the importance of assembling together even though the Christians to whom he wrote were living in times of great persecution.

We read. . .
"(24) And let us consider how to STIR UP ONE ANOTHER TO LOVE AND GOOD WORKS, (25) not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but ENCOURAGING ONE ANOTHER, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrew 10:24-25 ESV)

We can only provide and receive that benefit by spending time together. May we recognize how key our FELLOWSHIP WITH ONE ANOTHER is, being a vital part of our FELLOWSHIP WITH THE LORD and the carrying out of His Will.

Have a great day RUNNING IN CHRIST'S CROWD!
Carl

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