Overcomer - Diligence Wins!

Monday October 12

1 Timothy 4:6-16 NIV If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. 7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 9 This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. 10 That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe.11 Command and teach these things. 12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. 13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. 14 Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you.

15 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. 16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Here the Apostle Paul writes to his younger protege Timothy urging him to go all out for God. This passage is filled with urgent, active, compelling challenges to get up and get going. Train yourself - set an example - be diligent - persevere. Get it?  The Christian life is not for the weak and mild but for the daring and wild!  I hope you take this passage to heart today.

Reflect

Questions

What are some healthy ways to labor and strive in your walk with God?  How are you being diligent in applying your giftedness?

Sometimes we start off well but fail to persevere.  How can you press on the next level in loving God and others?

Prayer

Father I thank you for a fresh sense of urgency in my spiritual life.  Help me to be diligent in following you every day.  Today I choose to press on as you give me the strength to follow you wholeheartedly.  Amen.

Memory Verse

Hebrews 6:10 --  "God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them."

Share

Gather some family and friends together and read this passage. Then discuss this question:  What are some good ways to train ‘spiritually’?  How can we help each other?

DFM Nation

Next Sunday Pastor Glenn Teal will teach on the topic “Purity overcomes Lust.”  This is a great Sunday to invite a friend.  Pray for an open opportunity to do just that!