READ:
1 Timothy 1: 1-11
As we read this passage we see that Paul is challenging Timothy to stay where he is at in ministry, being faithful to remain in Ephesus. Timothy’s goal in being there was to show the leaders/teachers that they had strayed from truth. Paul tells his young charge that he is to correct these people with love being the motivating factor. These teachers were confident in the things they were teaching, but were actually incorrect in their doctrine.
Paul is essentially saying to Timothy, “Stand up for truth. Love the people enough to correct them.” He is giving Timothy permission to be bold, BUT to be bold with a heart of love. This kind of correction only comes by getting God’s heart in the matter. Paul is pushing this young leader to defend the truth that was entrusted to Paul, then passed onto him. Timothy already knew this truth but he needed a nudge in the right direction. As we’ll read later, Timothy had a great understanding of Scripture and the things of God. (2 Timothy 3:14-15)
JOURNALING AND PRAYER
1.
While we don’t have a clear
picture as to Timothy’s direction for the Ephesian church, we can understand
that Paul is asking him to be faithful in his calling to them. Think of an area
where God has put you – with work, or in your family, or in a ministry. Are you
being faithful in that area? Spend some time considering changes to be made,
and renewing your commitment to where God has put you for now.
2.
Is there an area where God
has challenged you to stand up for truth? How have you responded to this task?
Often our response is to give reasons as to why we can’t do what He’s asked us.
And sometimes they even sound good! But if we are to grow ourselves and others,
we need to learn obedience in this area. Ask for God’s love in the situation He
has given you. We must marry grace and truth as both Jesus and Paul did.
3.
Correction can often be a
sore spot for people because of pride. We are often stubborn and want to be
right. There can be even times where we see the right answer, but our selfish
heart doesn’t want to give into being corrected. Ask God if pride is hindering
you from receiving the best God desires to offer you. Ask for forgiveness and
choose to learn from correction. An attitude of thankfulness will help you in
that!
