Do not be so enamored with any fallen sinner, that you lose your perspective.  He or she–just like you yourself–is nothing outside of Jesus Christ.  Follow good church examples, to be sure–but do so with the knowledge that all of us have “feet of clay.”

This little treatise is especially written for younger disciples of Jesus–but it is also relevant for all Christians who wish to ascend to the highest glories they can attain to in the Messiah in this life.

As we embark on the New Year, it would be a good time to be reminded that our best friends are those who love Christ, His church, and His gospel; and that our worst enemies are those who would rob us of Christ, His church, and His gospel.  In this vein, it is my contention (and experience) that the most nefarious thieves are “religious” ones; and so I would like to suggest to you some safeguards.  Keep in mind that all of these “guiderails” presuppose a living faith in the Redeemer, and a true and sincere love for Him.  Here is my list. . . .

First of all, avoid all forms of self-righteousness.  Our greatest foes are within; and all those voices and forces that speak “well” of us, in anyway separated from Jesus, are liars.

Secondly, beware of all religious asceticism.  This is a tricky enemy.  It comes to us in the garb of “super-righteousness,” but it is none other than Satan’s religion.  If you wish, for prudence sake, to deprive yourself of some good creation of God, do so with caution.  Be sure you are doing it to enhance your love for Christ.

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