1 Tim. 6; 2 Tim. 1, 2
Ever meet a quarrelsome person? They want to wrestle words and concepts with you. It’s as if they want to prove their mental superiority to you. Being in their presence is not a joy
On the other hand, those who are lowly apart from their mental acuity are easy and relaxing to be around. As for me, I enjoy some humor if I am providing it. Others being constant jokesters are somewhat annoying. Who can see Christ Jesus being quarrelsome or joking around all the time? Not me.
1 Tim. 5
This can be difficult. We all gravitate to someone easy to like or be around. Paul, however warns leaders to avoid favoritism. Why? Because it sends the message that some Christians are more likeable, better looking, better dressing, more wealthy, more athletic etc.
I remember years ago observing a Christian leader’s choice of close friends. The friends had money and influence. I asked myself, “Are they a getting priority status because they have money and influence?” Whereas if everyone gets treated with the same love and respect, it more accurately displays God’s mutual love and favor for all who have been blood-washed and saved.
We should not be guilty of hinting to anyone that they are less than others.
1 Tim. 4
Paul challenges us to set an example for those who watch our lives. My brother, Gary, has five grandsons who used to live with him. Do you think his conduct and demeanor were being watched 24-7? Most assuredly! My personal family watched the life of my mother and father who gave us exemplary lives to emulate. Thank you, Mom and Dad.
1 Tim. 3
There is a difference. Ambition causes one to roll over others to gain a better status or position. Aspiration implies preparing ones self for opportunities of service and even self-sacrifice. Ambition wants power. Aspiration seeks influence.
The qualities Paul required for the office of Elder and Deacon included character and integrity rather than polish and prominence;
Jesus said it’s better to take a lowly seat at a banquet and be asked to move forward than to presume a position of importance and be demoted to devaluation. [Luke 14:9]
1 Tim. 2
Paul’s prayers were effective. Here he’s giving us valuable tips on how we can likewise conduct a prayer life that “avails much.” Prayer is a dynamic source of spiritual power that can change the course of life for those we focus upon. We are not wise to forego this opportunity to have an Godly effect upon those who are our prayer targets.
Make a list and unleash the POWER!!!
1 Timothy 1
Jewish zealots wanted every Gentile convert to conform to the requirements of the Old Testament Law to get right with God. Paul was clearly shown by the Holy Spirit the error of this doctrine. Grace and faith in Christ Jesus were the necessities for New Testament conversion. Paul spent much of his ministry attempting to right this wrong.
He said the law should be used properly.The law identifies WHAT SIN IS. When hearers find out how they have violated God’s Commandments, they more clearly see their need of a Savior.
The Law can help bring a sinner to Christ, but ONLY CHRIST can bring a man to God.
2 Thess. 3
This must be the work chapter in the Bible. Paul challenges the believers to be hard workers, giving himself as an example. He is so adamant on this point that he even encourages them to withdraw from disorderly saints, hoping to shame them into better work habits.
I must admit, I’ve been a better worker in my younger years. (Is there a relief clause for retirees?) My wife is a different story. She STILL can work circles around many. Paul would be proud of her.
Think about it … don’t you greatly respect those who have a strong work ethic? Their testimony rings true from a life committed to “not being weary in well doing.”
2 Thess. 2
Amos said, “Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.” [Amos 3:7] God made it clear to Paul by His Spirit what would happen in the end time. This chapter deals with the anti-christ and his role.
One great benefit of hearing ALL of God’s Word is that we embrace the whole counsel of God. It’s been said, “A scripture taken out of context is nothing but a pretext.” We must view all God has said on any subject to have a firm, truthful foundation for living. For instance, the Jews refused the teachings of Paul, holding ONLY to the Old Testament Law and the Prophets. My how they lost out on Christ.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: [2 Tim. 3:16]
2 Thess. 1
My mentor, Pastor Moses Vegh, used to say, “God doesn’t always pay on Fridays, but He ALWAYS PAYS.!”
To the Church at Thessalonica which had suffered persecution from zealous religious Jews, Paul assured them that God would avenge their persecutors “When the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from Heaven with His mighty angels.” [v. 7b]
Naturally, we prefer to see vengence upon our adversaries immediately. That’s the way our carnal mind works. With God, everything can be in the present. He observes the injustices and makes a note in His memory … or has a transcribing angel record it … or however He wants to do it. He then considers the ramifications of the lives He will deal with. I’m so glad He didn’t zap Paul when he held the cloaks of those who stoned Stephen to death. Remember, God is not willing that any perish.
What should we do? Do what Jesus advised … pray for your enemies and those that despitefully use you. [Matt. 5:11, 44] Leave the paying to God.
1 Thess. 5
The longer I live as a Christian, the more I see our need for grace and the power of God it gives. It is God working IN US both to will and to do His good pleasure. [Phil. 2:13] If we happen to be suffering, God will give us the strength to go it WITH His power to assist.
I know my dad is doing some suffering right now as he is groaning to be conveyed to his Heavenly home. We consider Christ Jesus Who suffered greatly in His final hours and minutes before He entered eternity. Yet, the Heavenly Father’s grace was upon Him to finish His course and fulfill obedience to pay the price for our sin. I don’t know what is going through dad’s mind, but I know God is giving him the strength through grace to endure. He is actually experiencing the fellowship of Christ’s sufferings. God will get glory from his life and witness. He is impressing his son.
TCS Daily Devotional 