October 21, 2013
“Take hold” (seize with focused resolve) of the prize of your salvation which is eternal life, and by implication do not try and take hold of worldly things. Focus on the prize. Live as a soldier in a foreign land, not becoming entangled in worldly pursuits, focusing on the victor’s crown of eternal life. What’s in your hand? Release that which is worldly and take hold of that which is eternal and don’t let go.
October 19, 2013
Paul told the young pastor Timothy to avoid focusing on silly distractions and people who might despise his leadership. Instead, “devote” (To give all or a large part of one’s time and resources to) the ministry of the Word. Today’s young pastor faces perhaps the most complex, multi-faceted set of needs and expectations of any generation. The modern church wants him to be and do all things well. Yet, Paul’s instruction holds more true than ever. We need churches that are led by pastors who are “devoted” to the ministry of the Word. And we need church members who recognize their responsibility to be equipped by pastors and teachers to find and do the ministry in the other areas.
October 17, 2013
“Mediator” – a person who acts as a “go-between” to bring parties involved in a conflict to a resolution. Jesus is our Mediator. He is the only one who reconciles us to God. Some may cry, “Judgmental, intolerant!” But as John Adams once said, “Facts are stubborn things.” And the fact is, Jesus is the only mediator between God and man. Like Paul, I have been appointed a preacher of this message. How about you?
October 20, 2012
Paul told Timothy to treat church members like family. The Spirit inspires a culture of mutual respect in the family of God. One that recognizes the unique way fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters are to be treated.
October 19, 2012
Paul taught young Pastor Tim to focus his ministry on these three things. This is a good word for today’s pastors. With the pull and tug of so many needs, pastors are called to “focus” on reading, encouraging and teaching the Word of God!
October 17, 2012
Pray for presidents, governors, senators, congressmen, judges, and all those in authority. A good word as the election day approaches.
October 20, 2011
Good leadership advice. Before promoting someone to lead, put them through a time of testing. See if they are FAT (Faithful, Available, Teachable), then set them apart and give them authority. Better to be short on leaders for a little while than to rush to raise up those who will disappoint and do harm.
October 17, 2011
Christians are to pray for those in authority regardless of political persuasion. We should be marked by our identity in Christ, not by donkeys and elephants.