July 3

Service For Others

Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given you through the prophecy spoken over you at the laying on of the hands of the elders. Be diligent in these matters and absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. — 1 Tim 4:14-15 BSB

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. — 2 Tim 1:6 BSB

Many young people love athletics, and Roman and Greek youth were especially fond of them. The Holy Spirit doesn’t underestimate the value of keeping our bodies healthy. But if we are so dedicated to physical training, shouldn’t we be even more committed to godliness, which prepares our souls for eternal life? Just as we discover and strengthen muscles we haven’t used before, are we just as eager to explore the hidden capacities of our soul and spirit?

Timothy had many gifts, especially for public ministry. In this letter, the Apostle urges him to stir them into flame, just like stoking a fire to let in air. We may have gifts, but we must actively practice the duties that allow them to benefit others. We should give our full attention and effort to the tasks immediately before us, not half-heartedly. Whatever our hands find to do, we should do it with all our might. Just as workers build brick arches over temporary wooden structures, and once the wood is removed, the brick remains, so we are building lasting habits and character on the temporary tasks of today. What we do may seem unimportant, but how we do it is crucial. We must always stay vigilant, for we hold not only our own interests in our hands, but the interests of others as well (1 Timothy 4:16).

God’s grace can shine through a young man or woman, making them an example in speech, behavior, love, faith, and purity (1 Timothy 4:12).

Prayer

Bless us, O God, in all that we do. May our hearts be filled with Your love, our lips with gentle, helpful words, and our hands with kind, selfless deeds. May Your Holy Spirit guide and rule our hearts in all things. Amen.