Diligence in Being Different – Jennifer Woodley
‘Train yourself in godliness, for, while physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.’ 1 Timothy 4:7-8 (NRSV)
The Spirit of God in the first letter to Timothy calls the reader to be separate from the world and to diligently seek to do so. Paul, in writing to the young pastor Timothy, encourages him, through the leading of God’s Spirit, to avoid all habits and teaching that are contrary to Scripture, but rather model for the believers and non-believers alike, a life of love, faith and purity. This can only happen if Timothy has nothing to do with the cultural practices and teachings that surround him.
Timothy is to be diligent in these matters; giving himself wholly to them, so that everyone may see his progress (verse 15). As Timothy trains himself in godliness and perseveres, he will save both himself and his hearers (verse 16).
This is not just an exhortation for pastors, but for all people who claim to be following Christ. We will all make good progress in our spiritual life as we heed Paul’s instructions. The instructions in this letter to Timothy are how all people who know Christ ought to conduct themselves. For we are His Church, the foundation of truth and are being built up to the glory of God. There is no room for idleness, distraction or compromise.
We must press forward, earnestly seeking Christ, confessing our faults and asking for His mercy and grace so that we ‘may be blameless and without blemish in the midst of a perverse and crooked generation (Philippians 2:15).
Jennifer is an Australian freelance writer who enjoys encouraging others on the journey with Christ through writing. Contact
