1 Timothy 6 - 1.10.25

Scripture: ‭‭ ‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭6‬:‭6‬-‭7‬, ‭9‬, 11‬-‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.” (6-7)

“Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.” (9)

“But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” (11-12)

Observation:

Paul is giving instructions to Timothy as a mentor to set him on a course to lead and evangelize others.  The phrase “godliness with contentment is great gain” stood out to me. What a great thing to aim for.  Paul tells Timothy to flee from harmful desires and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. What a list! He uses strong verbs: pursue, fight and take hold indicating this will not be instant or easy. 

Application:

I want to aim to become more and more like God and be content with what He’s given me.  I will need to pursue, chase after, follow at a fast pace, and not loose sight of godly character. It is interesting that not endurance and gentleness are listed too.  I need to press on even when it is hard, but also be gentle with others that aren’t going at the same pace as me or those who are challenging. 

Following God may at times require a “fight.”  I will need to fight not going back to old habits, fear, temptation, distractions, and lies that creep in and try to take over my thoughts. 

I need to choose to take hold of what God has for me, my calling-eternal life. It is important to remember to live with eternity in mind. It will affect how I act now because I know the future I have. It also will guide my actions as I interact with others because I want them to have eternal life too. 

Prayer:

Father God thank you for this amazing world you have created. You give me a hope and a future. What a price was paid for the forgiveness of my sins so I could spend eternity with you. Please give me strength to continue to fight for your purpose in my life.  May I keep pursuing you in the forefront of my mind. Grant me faith, love and gentleness. I know you are my source. When rough times come help me to endure. Thank you that I can have true contentment in You. Amen

- Cindy Howard