Nourished In The Words Of Faith

VERSE OF THE DAY:  ~1 Timothy 4:6-10 “If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.  But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness.  For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.  This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance.  For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe.”

Paul now tells Timothy that instructing the church on the things mentioned in verse 1-5 is part of what makes a good minister. How often as ministers do we struggle with teaching those things that are uncomfortable or could be considered condemning or judgmental? We often want to teach life, love and blessing but even those things flow out of living in truth that can only come through relationship with God and by revelation of Holy Spirit. It is sound doctrine and a healthy diet of Spirit led interaction with the scriptures that nourishes the soul and keeps us in the truth. Paul now warns to be careful what we listen to as he encourages us to practice or exercise ourselves toward godliness. We build our faith by “working out” spiritually. This is intentional and deliberate practice and application of the truth of scripture. We can know about Bible truth, even talk about it, but it is the doing of God’s word by faith that teaches us how to live it.

Practicing godliness in all things is profitable for all things, it is what brings the gospel to life both now and for eternity. The key here is that what we practice flows out of our faith in Him it is not how earn our salvation. Salvation cannot be earned it is a gift from God that must simply be received by faith in Christ. Christ is the savior of all men even though some reject Him. He is our salvation not our works but because we trust in Him by faith and faith alone. James says though, that our works will reveal where our faith is.  Out of the heart flow the issues of life, Christianity is about a transformed heart out of which godliness flows from our character.

PRAYER: “Father I thank You in Jesus’ name for a renewed and transformed heart and mind. I invite You Lord to shape and change me into Your image as You continue to help me live out Your love and purpose. Holy Spirit teach me and enlighten me to the scriptures as I read my Bible I ask You to reveal to me the life giving power of  Your word and I thank You for giving me the grace to live it. Amen.”

VERSE FOR FEARLESS LIVING!  ~ 1 Chronicles 19:13 “Be of good courage, and let us be strong for our people and for the cities of our God. And may the Lord do what is good in His sight.”