7 16 03

7:30a

I Timothy 6:3-21

The first two verses are a continuation of the previous chapter and were discussed yesterday. The first full passage, verses 3 through 10, are a warning against false intention. Paul tells us that those who teach false doctrine and don�t agree with the instruction of Jesus or Godly teaching, are conceited and don�t understand anything. Those people, according to the inspired word of God, have an unhealthy interest in arguments and quarrels about words. Most generally, these people are surrounded by conflict and they tend to think that Godliness is a way to financial riches.

Paul goes on to say that Godliness with contentment is the reward we should seek. He says that since we came into this world with nothing and we leave it with nothing, if we have enough to eat and clothes to wear, that is enough. When someone focuses on money, they tend to fall into simple traps. They do foolish and harmful things and it is of vital importance that the focus be put upon God rather than material things.

I agree.

The rest of the chapter is exhortation from Paul to Timothy to continue following God and to put aside the physical desires. He states that Timothy (and those of us reading these words) should focus his attention upon God and keep it there. Paul is not saying that Timothy is sinning or evil or making bad choices, but he is saying that it is better to be happy with what you have than to strive for monetary wealth. We are cautioned against putting another god before God.

In my opinion, any time you put something before doing what God has told you to do, you�re putting another god before God.

(sorry, this is as far as I got before my comp just shut down. We had an unexplained power surge here at the beach and I lost everything else I was thinking about.)