May 7, 2018
1 Timothy 6:11-12 New Life Version (NLV)
Our passage this morning is based on the Apostle Paul’s continued mentoring of his spiritual son, Timothy. Earlier, in Chapter 6, Paul instructs Timothy to be content with his present life and what God is doing in it. He is to take authority over selfish living and instead choose to live a life that pleases God.
Paul reminds Timothy that one day riches will be gone, contentment will have to sustain him, he will need to guard his heart against greed, choose to love people more than money, be kind and commit to share what he has with others, and love God’s work even if he is not paid. According to Paul, if Timothy is willing to open his life up to the Lord’s work and live in these areas by faith, he will not be a slave to his human desires. He will be right with God by fighting the good fight of faith in love. Eternal living must be every Christ follower’s goal.
We can all learn from Paul’s mentoring. If God is asking you to wait for something in your life, take the Apostle Paul’s advice and live in contentment, walk in love, and use your faith to believe for growth and provision.
1 Timothy 6:11-12 Fight the Good Fight of Faith
11 But you Timothy, man of God, turn away from all these sinful things. Work at being right with God. Live a God-like life. Have faith and love. Be willing to wait. Have a kind heart. 12 Fight the good fight of faith. Take hold of the life that lasts forever. You were chosen to receive it. You have spoken well about this life in front of many people.
Prayer: Lord, faith is action and I must grow in using it and understanding the power of it. Please continue to teach me and help me fight the good fight of faith. In Jesus’ name. Amen.