I TIMOTHY

The following comments are from Navigator's and Quiet Time Diary journals. One verse will be entered, then the comment, then the date.

1:2    to Timothy, my true child in the faith; Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

    This answers the following question: {Who are my "sons" in the faith?} I think of discipleship and people who look to me for direction - to hold their faith secure. While I'm not aware of anyone right now in that position, I hope that Jesus will allow me to have a "son" in the faith. (DRM 6/30/02)

1:3    As I urged you upon my departure for Macedonia, remain on at Ephesus, in order that you may instruct certain men not to teach strange doctrines,

    This answers the following question: {What are my reactions to hearing doctrinal error?} These people and their churches seem to be here to deceive people away from the Lord. I still love the individual and give most of these churches bookmarks with the hope that they will see the Light of the Lord. (DRM 7/1/02)

1:4    nor to pay attention to myths and endless genealogies, which give rise to mere speculation rather than furthering the administration of God which is by faith.

    Timothy was instructed in verse 3, "not to teach strange doctrines", followed by this verse. This verse made me think of another religion that I know of that has emphasized "endless genealogies" with the hope of leading others to Heaven. The ONLY way to Heaven is through faith in Jesus Christ. (DRM 10/4/05)

1:5    But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.

    A pastor of a church must love people, and have compassion for those in his church family. I don't understand how some church pastors consider what they do a job - and aren't available for any questions from the congregation that they are leading. (DRM 9/28/08)

1:6    Some have wandered away from these and turned to meaningless talk.

    This verse is in reference to leaders in a church. It seems to me that more and more ministers in churches have gone into speaking on "their life experiences" instead the word from the Bible.
    I am glad that God gave me the ability to tell the difference now. (DRM 2/18/87)

1:9    realizing the fact that law is not made for a righteous man, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane . . . 

    This answers the following question: {How can I benefit from the use of the law?} The law tells us what God expects from us. Trying to keep the law will not give us salvation, but directs us to be obedient to the Lord God. It's an important guide. (DRM 7/2/02)

1:12    I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service;

    This answers the following question: {To what service has God appointed me?} Right now, I feel that the Lord is using me as a seed (bookmark) planter. I don't feel that it is a job that will last long. . . either the rapture will come, or I will get another, better job for the King. (DRM 7/3/02)

1:13    even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. And yet I was shown mercy, because I acted ignorantly in unbelief;

    Every Christian who is born-again, has a testimony of what his/her life was like before they knew Jesus as their personal Savior. Paul is writing here how bad he was before he saw the Light and trusted in Jesus' mercy [v.14]. Praise God that He forgives our sins and lets us begin anew in Christ! (DRM 10/5/05)

1:14    . . . and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus.

    In this thought (v. 12-14), Paul pointed out that he was called by Jesus to do his ministry, not the other way around. We don't acquire salvation by anything we do, but rather that Jesus, through the Holy Spirit, leads us to Him.
    We are were sinners before salvation but were called by His mercy (v. 13) and grace. It's something that I/we can't be too thankful for.
    While I still sin, I confess this sin as soon as I am aware of it, then try to change the problem. This has been more challenging than it seems. The Holy Spirit keeps pointing out more sins as I study the Bible more. I understand how Paul felt — undeserving. (DRM 12/19/14)

1:15    It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.

    It seems that this is one of the most well-known of Paul's statements in the Bible. He was describing his own unworthiness to preach the gospel, but with God=Jesus everything changed. What Jesus did for Paul, dramatic conversion, He can do for each of us. We (I) just have to be silent enough to hear His voice. (DRM 9/29/08)

1:16    Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.

    I get easily confused between grace and mercy. I think grace is Jesus giving me something I don't deserve (e.g. salvation, faith) and mercy is not giving me something I do deserve (e.g. life in Hell).
    Paul found Jesus' mercy and love to keep out of Hell. In this verse Paul believes that Jesus did this so he (Paul) could demonstrate this to others - thus they could also believe in Jesus for eternal life.
    Can unbelievers see Christ in my life? How can I improve on that? (DRM 6/22/14)

1:17    Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

    This answers the following question: {How can I bring honor to the Lord by my life?} Paul wrote in v.16 that he was demonstrating patience  as an example to others who would believe. Certainly I need more and more patience when things aren't going as expected. (DRM 7/4/02)

1:18    This command I entrust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you fight the good fight, . . .

    Each of our lives consists of a war between our Christian spirit and the spirit of the Devil and his demons. At times it seems quiet, but other times the demons work through other unbelievers (and believers) and we are called to battle to defend our faith. Every word counts. The battle lines are drawn.
    In this verse, Paul was telling Timothy that these fights would come and he was to fight the good fight.
    So, when the questions come, and they will eventually, we are to be prepared to defend the faith. (DRM 5/11/15)

1:18b, 19    . . . that by them you may fight the good fight, 19keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith. 

    This answers the following question: {What must I do in my life to apply this instruction?} There will be others who will try to pull me away from my devotion to the Lord. New business ideas will be offered among other diversions. I must stay the course and follow Him. (DRM 7/5/02)

2:1, 2a    First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, 2for kings and all who are in authority,

    [Re: 2:1]     This answers the following question: {How does my prayer life need to change in view of these verses?} While I am praying daily for more people, am I doing enough? I don't pray often for politicians or generally people I don't know. Lord, lead me to pray more like You desire. (DRM 7/6/02)

    [Re: 2:1]    Prayer changes things. Here Paul urges us, the readers, to pray for all men (including women), if they are believers or not. There are so many things that we can pray for - especially salvation and health - but note that thanksgiving is also included, which reminds me that prayer is not just requests, but also giving thanks for all that God has done! (DRM 9/30/08)

    At least two years ago, I joined the "Presidential Prayer Team" as a reminder to pray not only for our current US President, but also for others who rule this country, state and local governments. Even if I don't agree with their policies, I pray that the actions they take will be God-honoring, and that He will direct their decisions. (DRM 10/5/05)

2:6    who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony borne at the proper time. 

    This answers the following question: {What is my response to all Jesus has done for me?} No matter what I do, no matter how long it takes, it won't ever compare to what He did to save my soul from hell. Thank you is inadequate. Telling others of His gift is better. (DRM 7/7/02)

2:8    I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing.

    It seems interesting to find this verse as we are studying prayer! I don't believe that this verse literally means to keep your hands in the air, but rather to continuously pray to God as you feel led at any time.   
    We should not be angry or dispute with each other and in that respect I certainly need help at times! (DRM 2/23/87)

    This answers the following question: {How am I accomplishing the instruction given here?} The text doesn't specify if I should pray alone or with other believers. . . I have done all of these things alone, and will need confidence as I start to pray with other men = tomorrow. (DRM 7/8/02)

2:9    Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments,

    It seems to me that this verse has been totally ignored today. The churches that I have attended will include women who wear anything from one end (casual jeans) of the spectrum to the other (fancy clothing and jewelry). What are we to say and do? My thought still is that the outside appearance shouldn't matter as much as the inward heart attitude about our Savior. (DRM 10/10/08)

2:12    But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet. 

    This answers the following question: {What is my attitude towards worship in my church?} This seems to be a Biblical directive, but also could be considered Paul's opinion. Considering that it is the Bible, I consider this God's will and what we should follow. (DRM 7/9/02)

    In today's society, this is probably one of the most controversial verses in the Bible. This could be Paul's personal preference, or it could be a directive of God through Paul. I think every believer should make their own interpretation. (DRM 10/6/05)

3:1    It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do.

    I remember wanting to be a pastor of a church since I was 10, when my parents invited pastors to have meals with us. While I was later diverted and discouraged from following that pursuit, it was always within. Now that I'm finally free to choose on my own, I fear that I'm beginning too late. (DRM 10/6/05)

3:2    An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, . . . 

    This answers the following question: {Which qualifications for my pastor are admirable for me?} While this list is for "overseers," I believe that I should also try to live by it. In verse 3 the list continues and states "free from the love of money," which is very hard in today's world. (DRM 7/10/02)

3:7    And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

    This part of Chapter 3 is really a job description for the title of "overseer" (v.1). From all that I have read in the Bible, God doesn't want us, as Christians, to be secluded from the rest of society. He wants us to be salt and light to others. So an overseer must also demonstrate this loving attitude to ALL that he meets. Do I qualify? (DRM 10/11/08)

3:8    Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not double-tongued, or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain. 

    This answers the following question: {How can I apply some of these qualifications to my life?} To be a Christian leader takes a lot of self-control, knowing Who you are serving. Lord, I pray that I will meet the qualifications of serving You here and in eternity. (DRM 7/11/02)

3:11    In the same way, their (deacon's) wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. 

    I actually found little that applied to me in this chapter, as the author (Paul) is generally writing of the rules for the church. 
    If I were a woman, certainly my character  would be different, but I feel that I would still have problems with talking maliciously about others. 
    Sometimes I feel that I have this problem. (DRM 3/26/87)

3:12    Let deacons be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households. 

    This answers the following question: {How can I further apply these qualifications to my life?} Not much in this verse applies to a single person, but, even in a household of one, I need to be a better manager. I put serving Christ higher than cleaning house. I must depend on Him for help and discernment. (DRM 7/12/02)

3:13    For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

    This is in the deacon job description. While not clearly stated, deacons also should have been Christians for a period of time before "taking office." Having great confidence in the faith" takes a lot of knowledge of the Word - thus can't be for new believers. (DRM 10/11/08)

3:14    I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; . . .

    This is only part of a thought written by Paul to Timothy.
    Paul wasn't sure when he would see Timothy next (v. 15), and wanted to be sure Timothy had certain things written down in case he was delayed.
    Like Paul, we don't know what will happen tomorrow, or even in five minutes from right now. God is in control of ALL things. No matter how many times I write that down, I have to remember that when making future plans. "If God wills" should be in all future planning. (DRM 12/24/15)

3:15    but in case I am delayed, I write so that you may know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth. 

    This answers the following question: {What changes do I need to make in my behavior at church?} Realize where I am. The physical church is a place to honor and glorify the Lord, not a social gathering place. It is where we are to learn the Truth and then leave and tell others. (DRM 7/13/02)

3:16    And by common confession great is the mystery of godliness:
                He who was revealed in the flesh, Was vindicated in the Spirit, Beheld by angels, Proclaimed among the nations, Believed on in the world, Taken up in glory.

    This verse is a great description of Jesus - even though it says "mystery of godliness." Being that Jesus is God, it still fits!
    Whenever I think of Whom I'm praying to, I'm still awestruck. (DRM 10/7/05)

4:1    But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons,

    It's October, and Halloween is in full focus now. My closest friend is preparing for a costume party at his home, and witches and goblins are worn by kids in school. How can I convince these people that all this is wrong? I can't. Only the Holy Spirit can convict people of their sins. (DRM 10/8/05)

4:4    For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, if it is received with gratitude;

    This answers the following question: {As a Christian, what can or cannot you do?} This section refers to others who fall away from the faith and forbid marriage (Shakers?) and abstaining from foods, but that is not God's desire. We can do all in Christ Jesus. (DRM 7/14/02)

4:6    In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith, and of the sound doctrine which you have been following. 

    This answers the following question: {How am I training myself to be godly?} Every day, without fail, I feel that I must read and try to understand His Word, the Bible. I always try to pray for discernment and wisdom before beginning, as He is the provider in all things. (DRM 7/15/02)

4:7    But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness;

    I think of fables as untrue stories that are common today - especially in cinema. I would say I am an advocate for only watching Biblically themed movies - based on the truth of God's Word.
    When a pastor call God's Word a fable - as I have heard - I think it's time to change churches. (DRM 10/12/08)

4:8    . . . for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

    This seems to be a comparison between a marathon runner and a Bible student.
    While a marathon runner has to discipline his/her body to accomplish the task, the benefit will only last for a short time. A Bible student also has to discipline - but his/her mind to absorb the Truth. The wisdom gained from this pursuit lasts forever - in this life and the next.
    Keep studying the Bible! (DRM 1/4/12)

4:10    For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers.

    It is for what? It is for godliness (v. 8) that we labor.
    As Christians, we study the Bible. There are different ways this can be done. One thing that is amazing is that each time I/we read a Bible passage we can learn something different. The Holy Spirit within us gives us this insight.
    Striving for godliness is based on our hope in God. We always want to understand Him better.
    Yes, God is the Savior of all, the gift of salvation needs to be accepted to be utilized. (DRM 7/6/16)

    The Greek word translated godliness in verse eight is eusebeia. It is a noun that means both right action and right belief. In today's passage Paul is telling Timothy that both believing and doing right (godliness) have value for all aspects of our lives. (from Our Daily Bread INSIGHT DENNIS MOLES)

4:11, 12    Prescribe and teach these things. 12Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. 

    Paul was writing to Timothy.
    Timothy was to lead and teach others the faith he had. Since he was relatively young, Paul wrote in this format.
    We (no matter our age) should also take Paul's advice. Our speech, conduct, love for others, faith in the Lord Jesus and purity in speech and morals should be an example to all we come in contact with. Even if we don't get to talk about Christ in conversation, others should see our faith by our mannerisms.
    Keep the faith, grow more in your faith, show your faith, if given the opportunity, speak about your faith. The world has to see the difference in us. (DRM 12/7/17)

    [Re: 4:12]    This answers the following question: {How am I setting an example for other believers to follow?} This is a test: How is my speech, conduct, love, faith and purity? Am I above reproach? Have I been criticized for any of them [yes], then I need to work on improvement, with God's help. (DRM 7/16/02)

4:13    Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching.

    This is from a letter from Paul to Timothy. This letter is part of the Bible, thus for the public to apply. We should apply this as well as Timothy did.
    While we are not awaiting Paul's return, as Christians, we are awaiting Jesus' return. As Christians, we are instructed to share the Scripture in whatever way we are able. If God=Jesus gives us the opportunity, He would be pleased if we did any of these things based on the wisdom/knowledge that He has given us of the Word to date. (DRM 12/7/12)

4:14    Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed upon you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. 

    This answers the following question: {How am I being diligent in the use of the gift God has given me?} Sometimes I wonder what gift He gave me. The 1991 church spiritual gifts test said "Christian Education," then I was told "Administration" and lately I've felt some "evangelism." Whatever it is, may it be done for His glory! (DRM 7/17/02)

4:15    Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all.

    "These things" refer to the spiritual gifts of v.14. God wants us to use our spiritual gifts or talents for His glory. It only makes sense to do as much as possible for His kingdom. If it truly is a talent, it will be something that we enjoy doing. As we (I) grow in this field, it will be evident to others - who should encourage us. (DRM 10/12/08)

4:16    Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things; for as you do this you will insure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.

    Don't quit! While this section was written for pastors, it also is a reminder to me that I am a teacher-witness to everyone I talk to. What I say or do is a representation of Jesus to them. While it isn't evident now, all of these occasional meetings will have an impact on eternity. (DRM 10/9/05)

5:1    Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, to the younger man as brothers,

    This answers the following question: {How am I treating others in my interpersonal relationships?} I think I made a mistake recently when I started to treat a 21 year old as a son, rather than a brother. No matter how different our ages are, I should trust people equally. (DRM 7/18/02)

5:3, 4    Honor widows who are widows indeed; 4but if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to practice piety in regard to their own family and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God.

    I think that the point of this passage is that widows and other single people should be supported by their family first, then God will provide. The reference to piety in v.4 seems to be a reference to passing the faith to future generations within the family. (DRM 10/13/08)

5:5    Now she is a widow indeed, and who has been left alone has fixed her hope on God, and continues in entreaties and prayers night and day.

    This answers the following question: {What actions can I take to help some of the widows in my area?} Encouragement and support. I will admit that I rarely think of widows - and had a hard time thinking of a Christian one - but now realize that she is lonely too. . . (DRM 7/19/02)

5:6    But she who gives herself to wanton pleasure is dead even while she lives.

    This section mainly deals with how widows should act. This verse, addressed to widows, could be applied to everyone. Those who pursue only pleasure would not be interested in learning the subjects in the Bible. Without this understanding, most likely they were never converted by the Holy Spirit at all. (DRM 10/10/05)

5:8    But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever.

    This answers the following question: {What are my responsibilities to widows?} Apparently there are two definitions of widows - dependent on family and without family. Those with family should be provided for by them. Without family need the church to provide. (DRM 7/20/02)

5:11, 12    But refuse to put younger widows on the list, for when they feel sensual desires in disregard of Christ, they want to get married, 12thus incurring condemnation, because they have set aside their previous pledge.

    The church should help "widows indeed" who are over 60 years old (v.9). The younger widows, as stated here, could get re-married, thus the church need not help them - yet. I am unaware if the Christian church today follows these guidelines, but it seems logical to me. (DRM 10/13/08)

5:14    Therefore, I want younger widows to get married, bear children, keep house, and give the enemy no occasion for reproach;

    Some things are easier said than done. Paul was referring to widows less than 60 years old [v. 9], and with our society emphasizing youth, I know this could be a problem. Those who can't obey this verse should try to spend time working for the Lord, learning and sharing their faith with others. (DRM 10/11/05)

5:19    Do not receive an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses.

    I remember the first church I attended after I became a born-again Christian. After a few years, they had a disagreement with the pastor and each other. They followed the verses in this passage and referred to it. Now I feel that it was a great learning experience, even though the church split and the congregation went many separate ways afterward. (DRM 10/12/05)

5:22    Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure. 

    While I may not understand this verse totally, I think it is important. The laying on of hands may be the "blessing" of one another. To share in the sins of others would be to sin with them as in group drugs or other sins done in groups. Keep yourself pure means the most to me. I try to do what God wants me to do and try to be a good example to others. (DRM 3/23/87)

    This answers the following question: {What part of Paul's charge to Timothy can I apply to my life?} Recently, to show others that I care about them, I have touched them or put my hand on their shoulder; while this is not sinful, I think that I should not be "too hasty" in doing so. (DRM 7/21/02)

5:23    No longer drink water exclusively, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.

    I can think of three ways to take this verse. Paul could have written this as a personal aside to Timothy, or it could relate to spiritual food as we grow in the faith, or it could be taken literally as it is written for everyone's health. If so, the emphasis should be "little" wine - so not to get drunk. (DRM 10/14/08)

6:1    Let all who are under the yoke as slaves regard their own masters as worthy of all honor so that the name of God and our doctrine may not be spoken against. 

    This answers the following question: {What is my attitude toward my employer or boss at work?} Thankfully (unlike the past) I don't have many disagreements with my supervisor at work. It is easier to honor and respect someone who you don't disagree with! (DRM 7/22/02)

6:2    Those who have believers as their masters must not be disrespectful to them because they are brethren, but must serve them all the more, because those who partake of the benefit are believers and beloved. Teach and preach these principles.

    This verse can easily be summarized for today - as respect your employer - and even more so if he/she is a believer. I have had both Christian and non-Christian supervisors - and always tried to respect their position in either circumstance. (DRM 10/14/08)

6:3    If anyone advocates a different doctrine, and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, 

    This answers the following question: {What ungodly doctrines and teachings do I need to guard against?} From all of the churches I have visited, there have been various "interpretations" of what the Bible said. It is easy to follow the wrong path! Lord, give me wisdom to interpret your Word correctly. (DRM 7/23/02)

6:4, 5     . . . he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions, 5and constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain.

    This continues Paul's thought started in verse three, where he describes those who advocate a "different doctrine" (cult) or it could also refer to non-believers.
    These people (both types) want to criticize what we believe and want to start arguments that they are "right" and we are wrong. They use different Bibles that were written to advocate their views.
    An unbelieving friend of mine has said that churches just collect money to pay their own salaries and we get no benefit.
    It seems that, in this respect, things have not changed in 2,000 years now. (DRM 12/2/14)

6:6    But godliness actually is a means of great gain, when accompanied by contentment.

    This answers the following question: {What is my greatest motivation in my life?} The other verses in this section refer to money being the root of all sorts of evil. . . Praise the Lord that He opened my eyes to desire to work for Him instead of money. I pray that I "keep on track." (DRM 7/24/02)

6:7    For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either.

    For years, before leaving Albany, I asked God for direction, and it seemed the Holy Spirit told me to "sell the stuff" and I kept delaying, then had to get rid of lots of stuff - for little money - to move to Chicago. Literally, I couldn't take it with me. I still have too much! (DRM 10/13/05)

6:8    If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.

    This section is on the folly of acquiring riches and those who are rich.
    In this verse are two of the necessities of life. These are what God needs to provide for each of us. As I have reached this level, it is amazing how He provides over a period of time. Sometimes I've received food, sometimes money to buy the food, and by different people at different times, but always just as I need more help. God=Jesus truly watches over each of us, so long as we commit ourselves to furthering His Kingdom. (DRM 11/23/12)

6:9    But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction.

    Greed is a powerful demonic temptation. People want to get rich and hoard possessions and are never satisfied. How much is enough? There must be a limit on how much a person "needs." If I spent less time trying to make more money, I could spend more time serving the Lord Jesus! (DRM 10/14/05)

6:10    For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

    We all need money to pay for our bills - for food, clothing and shelter. For some people, the emphasis is getting more and more money, houses, and grown-up toys. If money is the priority, God is put on the side, then possibly ignored. By trusting in the Lord God, I (we) depend on His fulfilling this need, then we can spend the time on serving Him in some way - as He leads. (DRM 10/15/08)

6:11    But flee from these things (love of money) you man of God; and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness. 

    This answers the following question: {What adjustments do I need to make to apply these verses?} Certainly I don't have all of these qualities to my satisfaction. As a perfectionist, I feel that I always need more faith, righteousness, godliness, love, perseverance and gentleness! (DRM 7/25/02)

6:12    Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

    Paul is writing to Timothy and reminds him that he (and we) is in a spiritual battlefield. The devil doesn't want us to spread the gospel and will do anything he can to stop us.
    Timothy had already declared his faith in front of many witnesses - either a few at a time or by speaking to large audiences while with Paul.
    I'm sure that the battle continues as I've had a lot of resistance when I've wanted to do some evangelistic events (http://www.jesusistheanswer.cc/P1, http://www.jesusistheanswer.cc/P2) in the past from unexpected sources. (DRM 4/15/13)

6:13    I charge you in the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who testified the good confession before Pontius Pilate,

    This verse HAS to be read with the next verse. Paul is writing to Timothy and wants to emphasize that he (Timothy) is to keep the commandment(s). (v. 14)
    The importance of God as Creator is emphasized here. Also the "faith" of Jesus that was exhibited in His trial with Pontius Pilate. Both of these acts are proof that God and Jesus are who they say they are.
    While we cannot attain to the godliness of God or Jesus, we can try to do the best we can. (DRM 9/5/13)

6:14    that you keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, 

    This answers the following question: {How can I encourage others to be as committed to the Faith as I am?} Living an example. How many people would want to follow the example of a drunk? If I want others to know and trust in Jesus, they must see Him in me and want to be like that. (DRM 7/26/02)

6:17    Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.

    Sometimes I feel guilty of desiring wealth, and wonder if my motives are right with the Lord. I pray that if I were successful that I would never forget the real source of my life and that He would receive a share of anything that I receive. (DRM 2/20/87)

    While I don't consider myself "rich" in comparison to most people outside of the USA or Europe, I am rich. During 2005, I have sold or given away a LOT of my possessions, but still want to make more money to pay my bills. I have to learn how to balance earning money to pay bills, and a serving attitude in whatever the Lord Jesus leads me to do. (DRM 10/15/05)

6:18    Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, 

    This answers the following question: {What steps am I currently taking to guard my faith in Christ?} While this verse is intended for "the rich," I believe that it should apply to all of us. We should do good works from appreciation, be generous with our possessions and ready to share of ourselves and the Good News of Jesus. (DRM 7/27/02)

6:20    O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you, avoiding worldly and empty chatter and the opposing arguments of what is falsely called "knowledge"—

    As Christians, we have been given the plan of salvation and have accepted His grace, through the remission of our sins. Satan has provided many alternatives to our hearing of His grace. One of these is "knowledge" - where people who accumulate more have no time or interest in His provision, as they feel that all systems must work in a prescribed way - rather than that God is the Director and can change anything at His will. (DRM 10/15/08)