My favorite thing about reading the Bible is learning God's truth for myself. I was raised in a Christian home and we were always completely involved in our church. So, God's word and christian values is what I was taught on a daily basis. With that being said, now as an adult who has been reading Scriptures on my own for years, I am learning so much more. I've also learned that a lot of times in our busy lives, our spiritual growth comes from those values taught in the church and from other believers. And that is great, but we NEED to be reading the Bible for ourselves and we should compare everything we are taught to Scripture itself. Unfortunately, in our fast pace, worldly culture, our churches have began to conform to some current societal ideas that don't always line up with God's Word. Some things and values we've been taught from childhood and even some of our strongest Christian examples, don't always portray God's word correctly. So, dive in to God's Word daily and let HIM guide and direct your paths. His Word does not return void!
Often I have read through a passage of Scripture and felt offended. I've had to deal with that offense. Because here's the thing, if I'm offended by anything in Scripture, knowing it is God-breathed and complete truth...then my offense is coming from own guilt. Guilt because I may not be doing what that Scripture says I should be or maybe I'm doing something it says I shouldn't be doing or I've decided that it doesn't apply to me since I don't live in Biblical times. Well, none of those reasons are acceptable because as a believer in Christ I believe ALL of the Bible. I trust it and know the wisdom God has shared with us through it is relevant for every age and time in history or He wouldn't have included it. Scripture has stood the test of time! I mention this here , because some things I have read recently, has caused me to look at these issues. I've had to ask God to open my heart, mind, and eyes to His Word and direction for me -not the direction of the world I'm living in. Sometimes that's hard for me because it's just easier to go along with the crowd, but let's face it...if you know me in real life...you know I don't usually follow the crowd... I tend to stand out....like a sore thumb. :) For my own accountability and personal notes, I'm going to recap a few verses that stood out to me in I Timothy. Chapter One Listening to false teachings keeps us from living our lives for God. (verse 3-4) I Timothy was written by Paul to Timothy, a young christian man, whom he trusted to teach the Gospel. He instructed Timothy to cling to his faith in Christ and keep his conscience clear (v. 19). Those two instructions are so important for believers: cling to your faith in Christ and keep a clear conscience. Chapter Two We are to pray for ALL people, asking God to help them, intercede for them and give thanks for them. We are even to pray this for our leaders. God wants everyone to be saved and to know the truth. (v.1-7) Paul was very clear on how we are to act as men and women in our places of worship. This is still relevant but not generally followed in today's church. Men are called to pray with hands lifted and have no anger or controversy. Women are to be modest, not drawing attention to themselves, learning quietly and submissively. We are to live in faith,love, holiness and modesty (V.8-15). I love that! I'm going to try harder to live my life as an example of faith, love, holiness, and modesty! Chapter Three Detailed instructions for the leader (elder, overseer, bishop, pastor) of a church: A man whose life is above reproach, he is faithful to his wife, he is self-contolled and he lives wisely. This man has a good reputation, he enjoys house guests and is able to teach others. He is NOT violent, a heavy drinker, quarrelsome and he doesn't love money. He is gentle and he manages his household well with children who respect and obey him. He is NOT a new believer in Christ and people outside the church speak well of him. (v.1-6) Instructions for deacons: A man with integrity who is well respected. He is not a heavy drinker, he is honest with money, and he is committed to his faith in Christ. He lives his life with a clear conscience, he is faithful to his wife and he manages his children and household well. Before a man should be appointed as a deacon, he must be closely examined. (v.8-10) Instructions for a deacon's wife (I would assume these are the same characteristics God would seek of a pastor's wife as well.): She must be respected and does not slander others. She exercises self-control and is faithful in everything. (v.11) Chapter Four Another warning of deceptive teachings. (v. 1-5) Steps of being a good servant of Jesus Christ. (v.6-16) Chapter Five Respect older people, do not be harsh with them. Treat older men and women like your parents and treat young men and women like your brothers or sisters. (v.1-2) Paul gives detailed instructions for the care of widows both by the church and their own families. (v. 3-16) Do not rush in choosing a church leader. Church leaders should be respected and paid well. This chapter also gives instructions for disciplining a church leader if it becomes necessary. (v. 17-22) Chapter Six Another warning of false teachings. (v. 3-5) True contentment comes from God, not money. (v. 6-10) Paul's last instructions to Timothy in this letter, is a call to all believers. We should all pursue righteousness, a godly life, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness. (v. 11-16) There is so much more in these six chapters. These are just a few things that stood out to me, but i'm sure the next time I read through it even more will be revealed. :) Keep reading God's Word! Joyfully His, Andrea
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For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. " AuthorHi! I'm Andrea, wife to my handsome hubby, homeschooling mama to my 7 amazing blessings, and daughter of the King of kings. I am so glad you have stopped by my little piece of the web. My prayer is that the Lord will use this blog to encourage you in your personal, daily walk with Christ. Archives
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