Definition: Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Colossians 2:18. It’s a really important warning about how we should approach spiritual matters – particularly when it comes to worshipping or being influenced by angels. Here's a simple explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is telling us don’t get carried away with feeling like you deserve something special, especially if it’s based on false promises or being overly eager to please someone else (like angels). It warns against vanity and pride. Let's unpack it word by word: “Let no man beguile you of your reward…” : This means don’t be tricked or manipulated into thinking you deserve something better than you actually do. It’s about being free from false promises and expectations. “…in a voluntary humility…” : “Voluntary humility” means acting humbly, without feeling pressured or wanting to please anyone. It's about recognizing your worth as a person, not seeking praise or reward. "...and worshipping angels…” : This is the tricky part. Angels are often depicted as beings of immense power and authority. This verse specifically cautions against worshiping them – that’s a very serious warning. "...intruding into those things which he hath not seen..." : Angels are often portrayed as being beyond human comprehension, powerful, and potentially even dangerous. Trying to “see” or emulate them is a recipe for trouble. It's like trying to understand the mysteries of God without truly knowing Him. "...vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind…” : This is the key part! "Fleshly mind" refers to our ego, pride, and self-importance. When we become overly focused on being “worthy” or impressive, it can lead to vanity – feeling like we’re better than we are and constantly needing to prove ourselves. We're puffed up with pride. In simpler terms: The verse is saying that if you're trying to get something special from angels (or any spiritual power), you need to remain humble, focused on God, and avoid getting overly proud or obsessed with your own worth. It’s about seeking true understanding of God, not seeking external validation. Why is this important? The Bible constantly emphasizes that we are created by God, and that our true worth comes from Him. It’s important to stay grounded in faith and trust in God's plan, rather than chasing after things that aren't truly meant for us. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give an example of how this principle applies to everyday life?