READ: 1 Timothy 6:9-12
9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
KEY THOUGHT:
Staying true to your profession of faith means that you consistently follow after the things that God wants for you. According to this passage from the apostle Paul, these things include:
1) righteousness;
2) godliness;
3) faith;
4) love;
5) patience; and
6) meekness.
How can you be consistent at pursuing these things? Paul gives two ways:
1) By fighting the good fight of faith; there’s really only one battle that matters when you think of eternity – that’s the battle for souls. Are you involved in that fight?
2) By laying hold of eternal life – making the prize of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ the goal and focus of your daily fight.
You can be a victorious, prize-winning Christian by staying true to your profession of faith in Jesus Christ.
CONSIDER:
- How does the Holy Spirit help you follow after the things Paul wrote about in this passage (refer to Galatians 5:16-25)?
- What are some ways that you fight the good fight of faith?
- How can you live more for the prize of eternal life than for the temporary prizes of this earthly life?
APPLICATION:
Be a faithful professor of your faith in Jesus Christ!
