The apostle Paul was very fond of Timothy, often referring to him as ‘my son’. The closeness of their bond is reflected in the letters he wrote to the young minister. I find them caring, warm and fatherly, with a special ‘tone’ all of their own. The Christian Standard Bible introduces them stating, “These letters are rich theologically and ethically…they show the connection between doctrine and ethics, belief and behaviour.” I pondered this latter statement, impressed with its importance. Our doctrines and beliefs should govern our behaviour and be reflected in the way we live.
Paul was keen for Timothy to remember the personal prophecies he’d received so he’d be ready to ‘fight the good fight’! How pertinent that is. We must remember the precious things Yahweh has said to us over the years, for they’ll help us to hold steady when the way grows tough. Paul wanted these memories to help Timothy to fight “having faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and have shipwrecked the faith” [1 Timothy 1:19]. How sobering to realise that if we deny faith or refuse to listen to our conscience we’re in danger of spiritual shipwreck!
J.B. Phillips describes faith and a good conscience as ‘simple weapons’ which some have laid ‘contemptuously aside’! It’s challenging to realise we can fight the good fight of faith if we’re armed only with these two weapons. The New Living Translation puts it this way: “Cling to your faith in [Messiah], and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked.”
Recent weeks have seen our TV screens, and even our lives, dominated by the 2024 Olympic Games. We’ve seen men and women battling it out in multiple events to prove themselves the best in the world. The disciplines may have been manifold, but there was one common factor – participants were fit! As believers in Yahshua we’re engaged in warfare. We may work in multiple areas and be engaged in manifold commitments, but there’s one common need – we must be spiritually fit! And this starts with faith and a clear conscience!
https://pixabay.com/photos/fencing-people-playing-sport-1839325/
This Is My Friend!Blessed is the person who places his confidence in Yahweh and does not rely on arrogant people or those who follow lies.
Psalm 40:4, Names of God Bible
No matter what happens to us in this life, the word of [Yahweh] tells us that [Yahweh] is for us, not against us.
Donna Kazenske
The Congregation Of Yahweh
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