In first Timothy chapter 6 Paul admonishes his son in the Lord to avoid people that want to argue with God’s word and those who chase after money. He even says to flee these things (verse 11) but to pursue God’s will: “righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness” (KJV). Righteousness is to be in right standing with God; Jesus won this for us by his death and resurrection (2 Cor 5:21) but we have to learn to walk in it. Godliness is to be God like and again, is something we grow in as we study his word and allow the Holy Spirit to change us. Our very walk with God is a walk of faith (Gal 3:11) and the Bible tells us that faith works by love (Gal 5:6) but requires patience (Heb 6:12). The primary way we grow our faith is by studying God’s word (Rom 10:17).

Meekness (also translated gentleness) is an interesting word. Meekness is a fruit of the Spirit as are love and patience (Gal 5:22-23). To be meek is not to be like a mouse but it means to be confident in the power and victory we have in Christ with our emotions and power under control. This is well illustrated in 2 Timothy 2:24-25, where Paul exhorts Timothy not to quarrel but to teach and correct with humility, gentleness and patience.

So, what do we get out of all of this? Well, don’t run after money, be teachable, be humble and run after Jesus every day; aim to be more like him. If we seek him first, all the other God things will be added to us (Matt 6:33). Keep on pursuing Jesus this week.

Give this to someone. All rights reserved.