Reflecting God Devotions for Holy Living – Friday, 27 December 2013 “Believe It-Behave It” Scripture 1 Timothy 4

Reflecting God Devotions for Holy Living – Friday, 27 December 2013 “Believe It-Behave It” Scripture 1 Timothy 4: 9 The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. 10 For to this end we toil and struggle,[a] because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.

11 These are the things you must insist on and teach. 12 Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. 13 Until I arrive, give attention to the public reading of scripture,[b] to exhorting, to teaching. 14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders.[c] 15 Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress. 16 Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Footnotes:

a. 1 Timothy 4:10 Other ancient authorities read suffer reproach

b. 1 Timothy 4:13 Gk to the reading

c, 1 Timothy 4:14 Gk by the presbytery

“Believe It-Behave It” by Greg Mason

Saint Francis of Assisi is often quoted as having said, “Preach the gospel at all times. If necessary, use words.” Paul is coaching young Timothy on the art of Christian leadership and ministry. He implores him to devote himself to the areas of his giftedness: to read the Scriptures aloud, teach, and preach. But he also admonishes him to carefully set an example in the way he lives. He is to be careful to teach godly living. He is to set an example of speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.

One of the greatest gifts we can give someone is the gospel. To share with others the life-giving, life-changing Word of God is a tremendous responsibility and privilege. However, for it to be most effective, it must be lived out. For our family and friends to see the gospel lived out in us is to provide a walking, talking model of the difference the gospel can make in a person’s life.  Our life should match our doctrine. As the old spiritual said, “our behaving must match our believing.”

Hymn for Today:

“I Would Be True” by Howard A. Walter

1. I would be true, for there are those who trust me;

I would be pure, for there are those who care;

I would be strong, for there is much to suffer;

I would be brave, for there is much to dare.

2. I would be friend of all—the foe, the friendless;

I would be giving, and forget the gift;

I would be humble, for I know my weakness;

I would look up, and laugh, and love, and lift.

3. I would be faithful through each passing moment;

I would be constantly in touch with God;

I would be strong to follow where He leads me;

I would have faith to keep the path Christ trod.

4. Who is so low that I am not his brother?

Who is so high that I’ve no path to him?

Who is so poor I may not feel his hunger?

Who is so rich I may not pity him?

5. Who is so hurt I may not know his heartache?

Who sings for joy my heart may never share?

Who in God’s heav’n has passed beyond my vision?

Who to hell’s depths where I may never fare?

6. May none, then, call on me for understanding,

May none, then, turn to me for help in pain,

And drain alone his bitter cup of sorrow,

Or find he knocks upon my heart in vain.

Thought for Today:

“If You Desert God’s Law

    The wicked are edgy with guilt, ready to run off

    even when no one’s after them;

Honest people are relaxed and confident,

    bold as lions.”(Proverbs 28:1).

Prayer Needs:

Developing Christian leaders in Hungary

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