Daily Devotion: Complete in Christ Week Nine, Day Four

Reading: Colossians 2:18–19

Devotion

Paul gives another warning: “Let no one condemn you by delighting in ascetic practices and the worship of angels, claiming access to a visionary realm.” The false teaching sounded spiritual. It involved humility. It involved religious experiences. It involved angels. It appeared to offer something deeper. But Paul says there was a serious problem: these people were not holding on to Christ, the Head.

Something can look spiritual and still lead us away from Jesus. That is an important warning for us today. Not everything that uses the word “spiritual” is biblical. Not every religious experience is from God. Not every teacher who sounds impressive is teaching the truth. The question isn't simply, “Does this sound spiritual?” The question is: “Does this point me toward Christ and agree with God's Word?”

If a teaching causes us to loosen our grip on Christ, regardless of how impressive it sounds, we need to reject it.

Reflection

• Why can false teaching sometimes be difficult to recognize?

• What are some modern teachings that sound spiritual but actually move people away from Christ?

• What can you do to make sure you are holding tightly to Christ?

Prayer

Lord, protect me from spiritual deception. Give me discernment when I hear teachings that sound good but do not agree with Your Word. Help me recognize anything that pulls me away from Christ. Keep me firmly connected to Jesus, the Head of His church. Amen.