1 Timothy 4
Paul tells Pastor Timothy that there will be a falling away from faith in the last days, something Paul knew from the Spirit of God, days I believe we are living in right now. Be careful not to fall away from the faith when you see others falling away.
Paul speaks of being a good servant of God, telling the pastor to command them and teach them, including good doctrine, godliness, and salvation. Stick to teaching that is in line with the Bible and taught by a called and established pastor.
Paul instructs Timothy on what to value and to what he should give his attention. What he mediates on, how he behaves, and what truth he holds to will affect his personal wellbeing, as well as the wellbeing of those who listen to his pastoral messages and observe his growth and dedication. Paul says, “Pastor Timothy, give yourself entirely.” God requires a full surrender and a complete commitment from His followers, especially the pastoral gift.
Jeremiah 11-13
In chapter 12, we read Jeremiah’s question for the Lord. He asks, “Why does the way of the wicked prosper?” This is a great question, even for today. From the beginning of His dealings with the Jewish people, God gave blessings for obedience and cursing for disobedience, but we often see blessings on the disobedient. Why? And why is the Lord allowing their sin to increase? He asks the Lord to bring it to an end because it is affecting the nation as a whole.
God answers started in verse 5. He asks Jeremiah, “If you have run with the footmen, and they have wearied you, then how can you contend with horses?” In other words, “If you are getting down because of the sins of your own people, then how are you going to be able to withstand what is about to happen with the nations?” God is letting Jeremiah know that his troubles are going to increase.
It is important that we are strong in the Lord and we let Him work endurance in us. We need to allow God to fortify us in our spirit so we can make it in ministry for the long haul. Difficult times will come, but if we allow God to root us deep in Him, we will not easily fall when the storms come. Let’s continue to put our eyes on the Lord, and trust His workings with the difficult people in our lives. God will never disappoint us! He is faithful and true!
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