A Dying Man’s Charge: Day 4
Day 4: Guarding What's Precious
Devotional
When something is truly valuable, we naturally protect it. We lock our cars, secure our homes, and guard our most precious possessions. The more valuable something is, the more seriously we take its protection. This same principle applies to the church, but the threats we face aren't always obvious. Paul warned the Ephesian elders that danger would come from two directions: from outside and from within. External threats are often easier to spot—false teachers who clearly contradict Scripture or movements that openly oppose Christian values. But internal threats can be more dangerous precisely because they're harder to recognize. Sometimes the greatest threat to the church isn't a wolf wearing a sign that says "wolf." It's false teaching wrapped in spiritual language and sprinkled with Bible verses. It's division that starts with legitimate concerns but grows into destructive conflict. It's the slow drift away from truth that happens so gradually we don't notice until we're far from shore. But here's what's encouraging: we're not left to guard the church in our own strength. Human effort alone is insufficient for this supernatural work. The same God who purchased the church with His Son's blood is the one who sustains and protects it. Our role is to stay alert, stay connected to His Word, and trust His grace to keep us faithful. Guarding the church starts with guarding our own hearts. It means staying rooted in Scripture, maintaining accountability with other believers, and being quick to address sin or false teaching when we encounter it. It means taking church membership seriously—not as mere paperwork, but as a commitment to mutual protection and care. When we truly understand the value of what we're protecting, vigilance becomes a joy rather than a burden. We're not just guarding an organization—we're protecting what Christ died to obtain.
He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught,
so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.
- Titus 1:9
Reflection Question
What are some practical ways you can help guard and protect your local church from both external and internal threats?
“The greatest threat is not always out there. Sometimes it's in here.” - Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be vigilant in protecting what You have made precious. Give me wisdom to recognize threats to the church, whether they come from outside or within. Strengthen me to guard my own heart and to help others stay faithful to Your truth. I trust in Your grace to sustain us. Amen.