In today’s devotion, we are learning from one of Paul’s letters to Timothy. Our passage begins at verse 6, but we must not forget that in verses 1 through 5 Paul gives Timothy a great Warning against False Teachers and describes how in the last days people will turn away from the Truth. Paul provided practical steps, so Timothy would be equipped to defend against false teachers. Let’s remember that these instructions were inspired by the Holy Spirit, through Paul, so that Timothy, and all who would read these Words and seek to be A Good Servant of Christ Jesus, would know exactly what to do. Friends, this Word continues to be alive for you and me as we are included within those who want to be A Good Servant of Christ Jesus, so let’s learn more about how we can Talk about Truth, Train in Truth, Be an Example of Truth, and Teach the Truth:
- Talk about Truth (1 Timothy 4:6) – we know that “all who declare that Jesus is the Son of God have God living in them, and they live in God.” (1 John 4:15) Thus, we must pray for wisdom and discernment, and stay rooted in the Word every single day, so that we speak the Truth – led by the Spirit, and in one accord with the teachings of Christ.
- Train in Truth (1 Timothy 4:7) – we know that the ungodly motives (sin) of this world clashes with God’s heart. Thus, we are not to waste time arguing with the world’s ideas, rather we need to ask the Spirit to grow us to have more of a heart like Jesus as we seek to be one with Christ and living by His Word. (Matthew 11:27-30)
- Be an Example of Truth (1 Timothy 4:12) – we are called to be an example of Christ, as a light to the world. Jesus calls us to let our good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise our Heavenly Father, as the light points to Him. (Matthew 5:14-16)
- Teach the Truth (1 Timothy 4:13-16) – God calls each of us ministers, or holy priests, and that does not mean that everyone needs to stand at the pulpit on a Sunday morning and preach, rather we are all called into “ministry” to minister the Word of God into the lives of those whom God has placed within our care and path. We are also called to live a life that is holy and blameless, so to set an example of how a Christ follower lives. Each of us are called to be “ministers” in different “relationship” that God divinely places along our path (some as children, parents, grandparents, siblings, family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, bosses, students, teachers, missionaries, caregivers, volunteers, acquaintances, passerby, counselors, mentors, pastors, etc.). Regardless of our ministry, God knows exactly where each one of us are and He is seeking to use us to share about His Son’s love and how through His Son each of us are offered forgiveness and eternal life (1 Peter 2:5, 9).
1 Timothy 4:6-16 (NLT)
A Good Servant of Christ Jesus
6 If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters, Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message of faith and the good teaching you have followed. 7 Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. 8 “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” 9 This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it. 10 This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.
11 Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them. 12 Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. 13 Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them.
14 Do not neglect the spiritual gift you received through the prophecy spoken over you when the elders of the church laid their hands on you. 15 Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress. 16 Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word that shines a light on Truth for each of our lives. Please continue to guide us with Your wisdom as You lead us to talk more about You and as each one of us grow to know more about You. Thank You, Jesus, for the places that You have, are, and will call each one of us into ministry. Holy Spirit, please be our guide, as we cannot minister without You and Your Truth. Father, please allow each one of us to discern false teachings, as You keep us close to You and under the mantal of Pastor Mary Haley who teaches Your Word and does not stray from Your Truth. We ask all of this in Your Holy Name, Jesus. Amen.