Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Word of God - For a Blemishless Life
1Tim. 6:11-14


Philip Manuel and Laila Anie Philip
Carmel MTC, Boston, MA

v12. Fight the good fight of the faith. 
Apostle Paul had given Timothy a daunting task of leading the church in Ephesus. (1Tim.1:3). He wrote this pastoral letter to encourage and instruct Timothy; however it is a much needed instruction that is applicable in today’s world.
The motivational, encouraging phrase “Man of God” is a remarkable title Paul is bestowing upon young Timothy. It reflects that he is a godly young man, ranked high in Paul’s esteem and gained the apostle’s complete trust.(I Tim.1:2) In the old Testament this title was given to  Moses(Deu. 33:1), Samuel(1Sam.9:6), David( Neh. 12:24) and a few  prophets but in the New Testament only Timothy  is addressed in this way.
For a blemishless life, we have to grow in Christ likeness which requires a continuous effort. We have to habitually take nourishment from His Word from infancy onwards (2Tim.3:15) and follow His commands. God’s commands are not suggestions or optional. They are imperative, mandatory. If we really love Him, we have to make conscious decisions to obey Him and to say “No” to worldly enticements. So we have to train ourselves to be godly. “Unlike physical training which is of some value, godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come” (1 Tim.6:7-8).
Apostle Paul suggests three imperatives we have to adhere to lead a blemishless life. We are to flee worldliness, pursue godliness and fight the good fight of the faith.(1 Tim. 6:11-12). To fight the good fight of the faith, we have to stay strong in the Lord and keep on battling the desires of the flesh. Remember that a Christian is always at war with the world, flesh and the devil. So we need to pray, immerse ourselves in the Bible and listen to God in His Word. It will encourage and strengthen us. (Psalm119:49-50) . Ephesians 6:11 says,” put on the armor of God.” That armor is Jesus Christ, His strength, wisdom, love, gentleness and peace. Perhaps we are in an environment that is not conducive to godliness either at work, school or elsewhere. Let us constantly remind ourselves that He is with us, empowering and teaching us. Let us listen to Him and obey Him completely. (1 Sam.15:22).
Our best role model to lead a blemishless life is none other than Jesus, our Lord and personal Savior.

PRAYER

Dear Lord, help us to trust and obey You in all walks of our life. Amen

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
“Radical obedience to Christ may risk losing comfort, health, wealth, and prosperity. But in the end, such risk finds its reward in Christ. And He is more than enough for us.” Dr. David Platt

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