December 08, 2020: SOAP #4023 from #2196:  1Timothy 1-4

SCRIPTURES:  1Timothy (NIV) 4:13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching…
16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

OBSERVATION:  Paul was writing to instruct and encourage Timothy who was leading the church in Ephesus.  The people needed to grow in their understanding; it was important for Timothy to teach them.  But the confidence of the people in the message is closely tied to the confidence of the people in the messenger.   So, Timothy has two responsibilities.  First was to make sure he was teaching the truth.  Second was to make sure his life and actions did not distract from the message.        

APPLICATION:  This truth applies to anyone who has the responsibility of leading/teaching others, such as elders in the church, parents in the home, and leaders in our communities.   

PRAYER:   Lord, help me live in a way that enhances your truth and does not detract from it.   Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity! 

Personal note:  Today I visited a cardiologist to set up a monitoring system for my pacemaker.    I mentioned to him that I was having trouble taking some breaths.  He ordered a chest x-ray that revealed my right lung had much fluid in the space.  He set up a time in the afternoon to drain some of it out.  But before doing the procedure, they took a COVID test which came back positive.  I have had no symptoms, but they must take proper precautions.  I am spending tonight in the VA hospital to have the procedure done tomorrow.  Join me in giving thanks for my wife who brought me this laptop and other necessary items.   What a blessing to know I am walking with HIM!