October 16
1 Timothy 1:1-20
Our reading of 1 Timothy begins what are called the Pastoral Epistles. The letters of 1&2 Timothy and Titus provide critical instructions for leadership. Since every one of us is called to make disciples and thereby function as leaders, these letters are critical for our understanding and our lives. So, as you begin reading, consider the people and areas of life which God has placed you in leadership and how you can apply these letters to those areas.
Paul begins his instructions with two foundational leadership principles. Leaders are called to speak truth and love well. Leadership is meant to direct people to truth and wisdom, and ultimately to God. Timothy is “commanded” to confront those who are leading people astray. He cannot allow lies to spread or deception to prevail, but instead must make sure that truth is taught and lived. How well are you leading in the area of truth? The second area of leadership is love. To speak truth without love creates an atmosphere of hypocrisy and legalism. In contrast Paul says, “the goal of this command is love.” We are speaking truth so that people will ultimately love God. Even Satan knows the truth as James says, but is without love. Therefore, as we think about the way we lead, we must ensure that we are loving people well while also speaking truth.
Father God, help me to lead in a way that reflects the way you lead me. Help me to speak truth and love others well. Amen.
How can you better lead in the ways of love and truth?
Our reading of 1 Timothy begins what are called the Pastoral Epistles. The letters of 1&2 Timothy and Titus provide critical instructions for leadership. Since every one of us is called to make disciples and thereby function as leaders, these letters are critical for our understanding and our lives. So, as you begin reading, consider the people and areas of life which God has placed you in leadership and how you can apply these letters to those areas.
Paul begins his instructions with two foundational leadership principles. Leaders are called to speak truth and love well. Leadership is meant to direct people to truth and wisdom, and ultimately to God. Timothy is “commanded” to confront those who are leading people astray. He cannot allow lies to spread or deception to prevail, but instead must make sure that truth is taught and lived. How well are you leading in the area of truth? The second area of leadership is love. To speak truth without love creates an atmosphere of hypocrisy and legalism. In contrast Paul says, “the goal of this command is love.” We are speaking truth so that people will ultimately love God. Even Satan knows the truth as James says, but is without love. Therefore, as we think about the way we lead, we must ensure that we are loving people well while also speaking truth.
Father God, help me to lead in a way that reflects the way you lead me. Help me to speak truth and love others well. Amen.
How can you better lead in the ways of love and truth?
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