1 Timothy 6:6-19
Timothy was a young leader that Paul had sent to the church at Ephesus to spread God’s word. As a young leader, Timothy faced many challenges from the church. Paul was not able to travel to see Timothy, so he sent this personal letter to encourage and counsel Timothy. After giving advice in the first 5 chapters about false teachers, public worship, pastoral care, prayer, church meetings . . ., Paul guides Timothy to stand firm in his faith in chapter 6.
Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and can’t take anything with us when we leave it. So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content. But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows. But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. Fight the good fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you, which you have confessed so well before many witnesses. And I charge you before God, who gives life to all, and before Christ Jesus, who gave a good testimony before Pontius Pilate, that you obey this command without wavering. Then no one can find fault with you from now until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. For at just the right time Christ will be revealed from heaven by the blessed and only almighty God, the King of all kings and Lord of all lords. He alone can never die, and he lives in the light so brilliant that no human can approach him. No human eye has ever seen him, nor ever will. All honor and power to him forever! Amen. Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life. 1 Timothy 6:6-19 (NLT)
So, what does this mean for us? I think our Southwood purpose echoes these verses: Growing in our Love for God and Others! May we live this purpose each day of our lives just as Paul and Timothy modeled it for us in their earthly lives.
Questions for Reflection:
- What can I do to help me grow and mature in my faith?
- How can I share my love of God with others?
Prayer:
Dear God, guide me in my walk with you, showing me the way to love you and others. Amen
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