Paul is telling this to Timothy, not just to warn him, but to challenge him. This is his charge to Timothy. He is challenging him to not fall into this groove and to also teach, rebuke, and encourage others to follow God's word.
"But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you." 2 Timothy 4:5
The Lord says a time will come when people stop living to please God and start living for pleasure. Period. They will become selfish, prideful, arrogant people and it will show. But, don't conform to society. Don't "go with the flow" and follow the leader. Take humble steps under the wings of your Savior, for only He knows the way to righteousness, our eternal prize. The Bible says, "the people will act religous, but they will reject the power that could make them godly.". I mean, seriously? FOR REAL? Who would reject the power to be LIKE Him. Who doesn't want to be a mirror image of God, "the Great I am", the One who does nothing wrong, who doesn't want to follow in those footprints? People tell me it must be hard being a "Jesus Freak", or that it is impossible for them to be "Christian" because of the crap they'd have to give up. I mean, they're right. I don't think you can ask any devout church member if they have always had life easy and if everything ALWAYS went their way, and get a positive "Oh, you betcha!" answer. My youth pastor, Brandon, once said, "Our greatest glory isn't in never failing, but in rising every time we fall.". The simple truth is... Things don't go your way, they go His way. We screw up. He doesn't. Life is going to be hard, for everyone, at some point or another. Sooner or later, and I promise you this, you are going to slip.. But, I know, as a "Jesus Freak", that my God will be there to pick me up. Again. And again. And again. That's how my faith works. That's why it isn't impossible to make that life changing, forever altering decision to follow after God and chase away my demons. Because, I know He will always be by my side.
"Don't let your enemy distract you from God's mission." Pastor Chad Blansit
That is one of my favorite quotes from my pastor. In times like these, where people live to please themselves, where there is cruelty and deception all over, this statement couldn't hold more meaning in my heart. In Nehemiah 4, it talks about coming together, against this enemy, against this evil, conformed society, and fighting for your cause.
".. Don't be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes." Nehemiah 4:14
Remember the Lord. Remember who it is you are fighting for. You will face obstacles, you will face criticism. But, do not be afraid to fight, don't back down from the dark, deceptive enemy, for the Lord, the King over the ENTIRE universe, is with you. Turn to God, speak with Him. You will be saved by Him.
"Be on your guard, stand firm in your faith, be men of courage; be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:13
"Stand on the word of God and you won't fall into error."
