1 Timothy – Week 6 – Day 3

READ 

1 Timothy 4:6-7 

6 If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters, Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message of faith and the good teaching you have followed. 7 Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. 

Paul now encourages Timothy and cautions him about not wasting his time in discussions that have no answer and no end. Paul wanted Timothy to concentrate on being godly and not to waste time debating “godless ideas.” Paul wanted Timothy to “train” to be godly. The word “train” is the one from which the word “gymnasium” is derived and is used only here in the New Testament. One does not become godly by doing nothing; it involves being engaged in the Bible and reflecting on how its truths are to be lived out, as well as spending time in prayer. 

REFLECT 

Have you thought about how some truths from the Bible are to be lived out in your life today? 

Do you spend time praying for your family and others who need to be drawn closer to God? 

RESPOND 

In this regard, notice how Paul prayed for Christ-followers in the Ephesian church by reading Ephesians 1:15-23. Consider praying similar things for your believing friends.