What's Up With Demas

Here is my SOAP for this morning. Philemon was a part of my regular reading and I remembered the passage from 2 Timothy concerning Demas. It is important to remember the cares of this world can be mesmerizing even to "the very elect" the scripture says.

Scripture

Philemon 1:24

Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.

2 Timothy 4:10

For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.


Observations

It is obvious to me that something happened in the life of Demas. In Philemon he is Paul's fellow worker. In 2 Timothy he has forsaken the work and walked away. There was a desire for the world or the things of the world that enticed him and he did not overcome their lure. What a sad thing to be in God's service and have your eyes blinded by things.


Application

I must always be on my guard concerning the desires of my heart. It is imperative that I keep my heart supple before the Holy Spirit and not allow arrogance to rise up in me. I must realize that even those who are called to God's service and have their lives completely submerged in His work can be deceived when they do not keep their minds stayed on Him.


Prayer

Lord I do not want my life to be an afterthought in your kingdom. Help me not to get my eyes on the things of this world. Lord I do not want to be drawn away by serving the creation rather than the creator. Fill me today with your Spirit. Let me walk in your wisdom and understanding. I want my mind to be filled with your beauty and my feet to walk in your guidance. Let my heart be overwhelmed with the knowledge of God. Help me to always distinguish your ways from mine.
In Jesus name, Amen.