Journal 1 Tim 4 (all references are from the ESV; changes in punctuation are mine)
Scripture: (Paul speaking to Timothy) “If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed.
Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness…godliness is of value in every way, as (because?) it holds promise for the present life and for the life to come. (The (previous?) saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance)
For, to this end, we toil and strive because we have our hope set on the living God (who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe).” 1 Tim 4:6-10
Observation: It appears that, of all things to fiercely pursue as a disciple, godliness is right at the top of the list.
Application: Is this the only wall plaque that Paul promotes?
“…train yourself for godliness…godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and for the life to come.” (1 Tim 4:8)
Maybe so, for when he tells Timothy, “The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance…” (1 Tim 4:9), verse 8 seems to be what makes reading and reference sense.
Train for godliness. What am I supposed to do with that directive?
What other directive can be found in the Old or New Testament that has the following beneficial results plainly laid out?
- Godliness is valuable.
- In everything I do, I should consider godliness is valuable to me in EVERY way.
- Godliness holds promise
o In the present life and
o In the life to come (heaven; you know, after the end of my days).
Paul hammers on this some more to Timothy in Chapter 4:
- “Practice these things. Immerse yourself in them, SO THAT all may see your progress.” (1 Tim 4:15)
Not only make pursuit and practice visible, but Paul also continues:
- “Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching.” (1 Tim 4:16)
“Don’t coast. Be purposeful. Be intentional in discipleship…” is how I think of the above.
It is hard. People are pulled in so many ways; there are reasonable actions being proposed and initiated all over the place. Like many, I see it on TV, Media, non-profit organizations, wars, rumors of wars, etc. It is difficult to be convicted of a path and set upon it, hoping it is not the “ministry du jour.”
I know it is for me.
Prayer: Lord God. Again, you challenge me to walk (and write about) a path. It reminds me of what you are building: “…to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ and to bring to light for everyone what is the Plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God (who created all things), so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was according to the eternal purpose that he (God) has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord…” (Eph 3:8b-11)
Goal. Objective. Mystery. Eternal Purpose. Christ. The Cross. The Gospel. Your glory forever and ever. May your Kingdom reign in me today.
Amen.
Ricky two-shoes.