1 Timothy 1:1-11 (NRSV)
About false teachers
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope,
To Timothy, my loyal child in the faith:
Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
I urge you, as I did when I was on my way to Macedonia, to remain in Ephesus so that you may instruct certain people not to teach any different doctrine, and not to occupy themselves with myths and endless genealogies that promote speculations rather than the divine training that is known by faith. But the aim of such instruction is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith. Some people have deviated from these and turned to meaningless talk, desiring to be teachers of the law, without understanding either what they are saying or the things about which they make assertions.
Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it legitimately. This means understanding that the law is laid down not for the innocent but for the lawless and disobedient, for the godless and sinful, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their father or mother, for murderers, fornicators, sodomites, slave traders, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to the sound teaching that conforms to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which he entrusted to me.
DEVOTION
I love these words of advice to Timothy from the Apostle Paul regarding teaching. Paul writes, "But the aim of such instruction is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith."
These are the goals of all Bible Study and godly teaching. As we seek to walk in greater love, we will impact our families and communities for the better. As we seek to live in good conscience, striving to do that which is right and holy, we will be a blessing to those with whom we live and work. And as we strive to practice sincere faith, we will grow in the love and knowledge of God and in deeper relationship with him!
It seems to me that only good can come of more love, good conscience, and sincere faith! These are attributes that pertain to loving God and neighbor as ourselves. These are attributes that pertain to following the example of Jesus in word and in deed!
I am excited about the opportunities that God has afforded me for this type of instruction. By reading God's Word, praying, going to Bible Study, attending church, and having Godly friends, mentors, and role models in the my life, I believe that day by day I will increase in love, conscience, and faith!
To GOD be the glory, great things God has done!
Let us pray: Oh God, please help me to grow in love, conscience, and faith. Help me to love you and my neighbors as myself. Please help me to take advantage of opportunities for Godly instruction and please send people into my life who will teach me to be more like you. I pray this in Jesus' Name, Amen
INVITATION
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