This is a book was written by Paul as encouragement to one of his closest companions. Timothy was a young Christian leader in Ephesus, and Paul was a bit of a father figure to him. While written to help Timothy discern issues facing the early church, the wisdom speaks to us as well. I’m going to focus in on verse 5. “The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith.”
Paul’s words here are clear as to Timothy’s mission, and I think we should see it as our missions as well. While it sounds simple enough, it is also very difficult. Let’s unpack that a bit. We, by nature, are so pulled by society and often drawn to darkness. We might not even realize this deception is happening to us. To have a “pure” heart becomes a struggle. What does that even mean, a “pure” heart?
If we are true to ourselves, having a clear conscience is also fleeting, unless we truly focus on the truth and rid ourselves of the evil and folly that surrounds us, that is trying to devour us. The evil one is crafty and he uses many means by which to tempt us to leave behind our destiny. We too often shut ourselves off from a life of faith and the enjoyment a pure heart and clear conscience can bring. To be right with God.
What does living of a life of faith in God look like these days? Take some time today to reflect on how you are living out your faith.
Let’s pray. Lord help us to discern the evil around us that is ready to deceive our hearts. Help us to stand strong against those false teachers and pray for them. Thank you for the encouragement you send to us in your word. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
God is always faithful. This psalm is full of praise but it also speaks of a time when the psalmist felt as if God had turned away. When things are going well, it is easy for us to have confidence in our own ability, push forward leaving God behind. This does not please God. The psalmist experienced this very thing it appears.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for all you have done for me. For protecting me from my adversaries and delivering me to a stress-free environment. What great people you have placed in my life, and I pray for each one that they will know you and follow your plan for their life as well. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
ages paint the scene for us! God’s “voice”, as it were, personifying his
The psalmist is crying out in despair, a common theme in the psalms. As the prayer book of the Bible, it is understandable that the writers would pour out their hearts to God, just as we do in our prayer and conversation with God. Here, however, there is a vengeance in his tone toward his adversaries. We see that in other psalms, too, but today these words jump out to me, “Give them a taste of what they have done to others.” The psalmist relying on God to make it right, not taking it on himself to “get even”.
I don’t know about you, but I need to ponder this one a bit more than others. Perhaps I am a bit distracted. I have just had grandchildren visiting, and now the stillness invades my soul once again yet my mind races back to the gleeful giggles and attention getting tugs on my hand to play. In the stillness, I am hearing bird chirping, children playing on the playground in the distance. The sunshine is calling my name. God’s beauty to behold.
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