Today's Reading:O.T. - 1 Chronicles 25 - 27
N.T. - 1 Timothy 4
Focus Verses: 1 Timothy 4:12-16
12Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. 13Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. 14Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you. 15Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. 16Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
Insight:
Even though Timothy is a young Christian leader, Paul says that he can avoid being dismissed for his youth by being a shining example for all believers in the way he lives out his faith. No one will look down on him if he is living up to Christ's call for his life. The way he talks, loves, and demonstrates holiness will earn the respect of everyone -- even those who are older than him. Paul reminds Timothy that the church elders had publicly recognized his gift for leadership and ministry by laying their hands on him; Timothy should take their endorsement and support very seriously and diligently give himself to progress in his spiritual growth and the exercise of his gifts. This diligence should include the study of scripture, careful self-examination of his lifestyle, and careful attention to sound doctrine. His perseverance in these matters would result in blessing in his own life and in the lives of those to whom he ministered.
Response and Action:
I will do my best to lead an exemplary life of faith in my speech, in my commitment to holiness, in my study of scripture, and in the exercise of my gifts. I believe that diligence in these things will result in blessing to me and to people around me.
By the power and grace of your Holy Spirit, O God, lead, teach, transform, shape, and strengthen me, that I might delight in your will and walk in your ways to the glory of your name. Help me to be a good steward of all you have given me. Grant me the wisdom and the will to guard my heart, feed my spirit, stimulate my mind, and care for my body. Help me to do the good things you've prepared for me to do. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.
Proverbs: 11:30
"The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise."
Resources:
Spiritual Gifts: 8 Studies for Individuals or Groups
by R. Paul Stevens
