Scripture for Today:  Colossians 2:8  “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of this world, rather than according to Christ.”

It just about kills me to see dogs caged up in animal shelters.  Of course, they have sometimes been rescued off the streets from horrible conditions.  Behind those bars they are receiving food, water and shelter.  But seeing their poor little faces peeking out with a soulful look makes me want to adopt them all!  No one likes to be behind bars.

Our verse for today describes another kind of captivity that is just as real as those bars.  Our thoughts can be taken captive through deceptive philosophies.  Rather than looking at the world through God’s truth, one can be looking at the world through a grid of man-made tradition.  This is the only time in the New Testament that this word, “philosophy” is used.  Its literal meaning is “love of wisdom.”  But as true wisdom is found in the fear of the Lord (Prov. 9:10) anything else is empty and hollow.  Any system of belief that does not accord with Christ’s teaching has the potential to imprison our thoughts.

God’s revelation through His Word stands in huge contrast to human thinking.  His thoughts are high above ours (Isaiah 55:8).  Jesus declares that the truth of His Word makes one free (John 8:32).  The Jews to whom Jesus was speaking did not realize that they were in bondage.  People today do not realize that they are imprisoned as well.  My heart is filled with sadness and compassion to see friends and family members behind those unseen bars.

Knowing Jesus sets me free from futile deceptive thinking.  Thank you, Lord for the freedom of Your Truth!