Pay attention to yourself and to your teaching. Continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you. 1 Timothy 4:16 WEB
In this closing line of the fourth chapter of 1 Timothy, Paul writes these words to encourage Timothy to persevere in his ministry. Paul begins the chapter with a warning saying that in times to come people will abandon the faith and follow deceiving sports of demons rather than being guided by the Holy Spirit of God.
Paul counsels Timothy to nourish the faithful, teaching the truth of the goodness of God and faithfully teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. The apostle warns Timothy not to have anything to do with old wives tales and godless myths. Instead, Paul encourages Timothy to train himself to be righteous in all things.
Using an analogy of an athlete, Paul asserts that physical training is of some value, but godliness has value in this world and in the eternal realm to come. Paul encourages Timothy to daily practice of godliness in 1 Timothy 4:13, “Until I come, pay attention to reading, to exhortation, and to teaching. WEB”
The Wellspring of Life
With these instructions, Paul leads the young preacher to focus on scripture and truth while developing in his spiritual life. As Solomon writes in Proverbs 4:23, “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it is the wellspring of life. WEB” Paul wants Timothy to pay close attention to himself and his teaching to avoid false doctrine creeping into the church.
His words are not about saving anyone through deeds. We are saved by grace. Paul’s words concern saving Timothy and other church members from the errors of false teaching. He wants them to stay true to the word of God. Paul is encouraging Timothy to be a faithful example and good leader for his congregation.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for making clear the difference between right and wrong. Thank you for the truth of your holy word. Help me to pay attention to your law and to practice your will in my daily life. Help me to be a good example for others. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The God of Peace
