Milo

A MEANINGLESS LIFE
Ecclesiastes 5–8

“For who knows what is good for a man in life, during the few and meaningless days he passes through like a shadow?” (Ecc. 6:12)

As we sense the despair that grips the Teacher’s heart in his role as secular man, we realize afresh how great God’s salvation is. Making the best of a meaningless life is secular man’s fate. Our challenge is to make a meaningful life better!

Overview
In his role as secular man the Teacher showed life’s meaninglessness by a further critique of religion (5:1–7), riches (vv. 8–20), and the brevity of life (6:1–12). His theme proven, the Teacher then suggested how to make the best of an essentially meaningless life (7:1–8:17).

Understanding the Text
“Let your words be few” Ecc. 5:1–7. In natural religion human beings seek to reach up to God from earth, and find Him distant and unreachable. This is the implication of the saying, “God is in heaven, you are on earth.” God may know man, but man does not know God. Thus the religious person should let his words be few, stand in awe, and if he makes a vow to God, should fulfill it quickly lest the unknown God be angry.
In revealed religion, God is initiator. He reaches down from heaven to reveal Himself to man. This God is known on earth, and His will is known too.
How terrible it is to be driven by reason to acknowledge God’s existence, but to know nothing about Him! How wonderful that in His Word and in Christ, our God has spoken to us of His love, compassion, and salvation.

“As he comes, so he departs” Ecc. 5:8–20. Several reasons are offered to show why wealth is incapable of providing life with meaning. A person may work hard—but his profits are eaten up in taxes (vv. 8–9). Even a rich man isn’t satisfied with his wealth. He just wants more (v. 10). The more one earns the more he spends (v. 11). People with money lie awake worrying about keeping it (v. 12). Hoarded wealth is more likely to do harm than good—and when a man dies he can’t take it with him (vv. 13–17). In short, the only value of wealth is as a narcotic, to keep a man so occupied with earthly pleasures that he doesn’t realize how empty his life really is (vv. 18–20).
When a Christian adopts materialistic values, he or she has chosen the empty, meaningless way of life of secular man. Christ died in part to free us from an unhealthy love of money.

“Even if he lives a thousand years” Ecc. 6:1–12. One of the most grievous evils identified by the Teacher is that, however long a man lives, it is not long enough. Even a person with wealth, possessions, and honor soon dies, with his appetites still unsatisfied.
In saying that “all man’s efforts are for his mouth,” the writer suggested that secular man is on a treadmill. He works to satisfy his physical needs and desires, yet however well-fed, he becomes hungry again, and however supplied with drink his thirst returns. In it all, his deepest need, the nameless desire for meaning, persists as an aching desire that no food or drink can quench. “Whatever exists has already been named.” Life on earth is an endless repetition, a treadmill on which each new generation walks or runs until their “few and meaningless days” are over.
There is no meaning to be found in the life lived by secular man.

“Is better than” Ecc. 7:1–8:17. With the close of chapter 6, the author had finished presenting proof that life under the sun, without a personal relationship with God, is meaningless. But he continued his quest. Given the meaninglessness of life, what should a person do?
Solomon, unlike the authors of other ancient pessimistic wisdom literature, did not suggest suicide. Instead he suggested that a man examine his options, and choose the lesser of evils. We can trace the options he suggested in 7:1–12:8. In today’s reading, here is the advice of the Teacher concerning choices open to secular man.
7:1–12. Even if life is meaningless, some things in life are better than others. For instance, sorrow is better than laughter—if only because it is more realistic! For the same reason, it’s foolish to say that “the old days” were better than today!
Although these conclusions may not be obvious, it is obvious that some things are better than others. For instance, the end of a matter is better than the beginning. Patience is better than pride. The wise are better off than fools. Given this, the Teacher offers his advice.
7:13–14. Adopt a fatalistic attitude. What God has determined cannot be changed, and no one can know ahead of time whether God’s future holds good times or bad for him.
7:15–22. Avoid extremes. Don’t set out to be too righteous or too wicked, and ignore what other people may say about you.
7:23–8:1. Wisdom is better than stupidity. But wisdom has its limits. It will not enable a person to discover “the scheme of things,” and it will not make a person righteous. In fact, wisdom forces one to the conclusion that while God may have made man upright, “men have gone in search of many schemes.”
8:2–10. Adjust to the rules of your society. It is far better to fit in than to be a rebel. This thought underlies the Teacher’s call to obey the king, and not rock the boat by challenging his authority.
8:11–14. Fear God as Judge. This is a difficult call, for one must take it on faith that in the end God will punish the wicked—despite the present prosperity of so many wicked men. In essence the Teacher suggested, don’t take chances where God is concerned. Wisdom tells us He is there, even if we do not know anything else about Him.
8:15. Enjoy while you can. Take what pleasure is possible from this life, even though it is meaningless.
8:16–17. Finally the writer made a significant confession. Even the conclusions he had drawn rested on insufficient evidence! No one can really “comprehend what goes on under the sun.” Human reason is incapable of drawing all the evidence together and reaching correct conclusions. Human reason cannot truly describe, or even comprehend, all of reality.
We conclude with this thought. The conclusions of secular man about the meaninglessness of life are faulty, simply because secular man does not have all the evidence, nor is he able to fit it together accurately. The best that secular man can do is guess about the true nature of the universe in which he lives. And his best guesses lead, inevitably, to the conclusion that life for the individual is empty and meaningless.
How wonderful that you and I do not have to guess! How wonderful that we know. We know the origin of our universe and its destiny. We know that we human beings have been created in the image of God, are loved by Him, and are destined to live forever! We know the saving power God has unleashed in this world through Jesus. And, because we know, we are freed from secular man’s bondage to despair.

DEVOTIONAL
“Better Than” Choices
(Ecc. 7–8)
Any set of beliefs that a person adopts is to be used as criteria to evaluate choices.
This may sound a little stuffy. But it expresses a vital truth. The Teacher of Ecclesiastes concluded that life was meaningless, and from that starting point went on to distinguish options in life which were better than others.
We Christians start with a different set of conclusions. We believe that life is meaningful. God loves us, and has chosen us, in Jesus’ words, “to go and bear fruit” (John 15:16). Other New Testament passages put it a little differently, but the thought is the same. We have been chosen that we might “be for the praise of His glory” (Eph. 1:12). We are God’s workmanship, “created in Christ Jesus to do good works” (2:10).
This is not a secular universe, formed by chance. It is a universe created by a personal God, who has chosen to love us—and chosen us to love and serve Him.
What options then are “better” if our set of beliefs about the world is formed by a belief in God and by experience of His love? Well, some of life’s better things for the Christian include: Caring more about people than about things. Giving ourselves to serve rather than be served. Storing up treasure in heaven rather than on earth. Spending time with God’s Word rather than TV sitcoms. Making time for our families rather than spending all our time and energy on our jobs. Depending on God rather than on ourselves, and expressing that dependence in prayer. And so on.
You can add to this list just as easily as I can.
You see, our problem isn’t in knowing what “better than” choices are open to us as Christians. Our problem is in making those choices daily.
No, this isn’t one of those “let’s add on some more guilt” devotionals. It’s just a reminder. The life of secular man really is meaningless. God’s call to you and me to make “better than” choices is His invitation to discover something that secular man can never know.
A truly meaningful, and thus blessed, life.

Personal Application
The “better than” choices we make for Jesus’ sake end up as blessings for us.

Quotable
“Wisdom is knowing what to do next, skill is knowing how to do it, and virtue is doing it.”—David Starr Jordan

THE GOOD FIGHT
2 Timothy 3–4

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Tim. 4:7).

How good to look back at the end of life and be satisfied with the way you lived.

Overview
Paul warned of growing godlessness (3:1–9) and of persecution awaiting those who live godly lives (vv. 10–13). Timothy was to trust the Scriptures (vv. 14–17) and fulfill his calling (4:1–5). Paul had lived this life, and was ready for his reward (vv. 6–8). Paul closed with personal remarks (vv. 9–22).

Understanding the Text
“A form of godliness but denying its power” 2 Tim. 3:1–5. The phrase “the last days” need not, but may, focus on the years just preceding Christ’s return. Here it seems better to see Paul’s remarks as directed to our own age, which has now extended over 1,900 years.
Our times are perilous because of the distortion of true religion by those who have the outward form of religion, but who deny its power. What is the power of godliness that they deny? Why, it is the power to take sinful people and purge their character of the sins that Paul lists here!
The power of true religion is seen in its transformation of the character of those who truly believe.

“Have nothing to do with them” 2 Tim. 3:1–5. Paul listed 18 traits that mark individuals off as strangers to true religion. Look at the list, not to see how others measure up, but to see what God has done to transform you—and what He is committed to do for you in the future. Here is the list:

1. Selfish—a “lover of yourself.”
2. Materialistic—a lover of money.
3. Boastful.
4. Arrogant—contemptuous of others.
5. Abusive—slandering others.
6. Disobedient to parents.
7. Ungrateful.
8. Unholy—without relationship to God and living a purely secular life.
9. Unloving—lacking even normal affection for family.
10. Unforgiving—resisting reconciliation with others.
11. Slanderous—prone to falsely accusing others.
12. Without self-control—living in the grip of physical passions.
13. Brutal—savage and fierce.
14. Indifferent to good and drawn to evil.
15. Treacherous—without loyalty.
16. Rash, reckless.
17. Conceited.
18. Lovers of pleasure—putting themselves in the place of God as the center of their affections.

“Their folly will be clear to everyone” 2 Tim. 3:6–9. It’s easy to appear religious. But when folks get to know us, they quickly realize whether our faith is a facade or real.
Think how hard it is for an arrogant, ungrateful, unloving, treacherous, selfish individual to disguise those traits for long. And think how long before others learn whether we are responsive, grateful, loving, trustworthy, and caring persons. Only the complete fool can be long deceived.
There’s a comforting thought here for us. As we experience God’s inner transformation, our character becomes more and more clear to those who know us. The very persons we are brings glory to God, and demonstrates the power of the Gospel.

“Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” 2 Tim. 3:10–17. It’s strange, perhaps, but the world isn’t really eager to welcome godly persons. We make it too uncomfortable for others.
A young Christian friend, convinced that as a Christian he should work hard on his job, was persecuted unmercifully by his coworkers, who insisted he slack off as they did. His commitment to do an honest day’s work for his pay showed up their own laziness and indifference!
When “evil men and impostors” become worse, the believer whose life exposes their character, becomes less and less popular. So what are we to do? Just what Paul told Timothy. “Continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of.”

“You know those from whom you learned” 2 Tim. 3:13. We can picture the church as a long line of men and women holding hands, reaching from our own time back to the day of the Apostles. That “hand in hand” is important.
I have often asked members of Christian groups to think of a person who had a strong, positive influence on their life. Then I’ve described opposing aspects of relationships. Was the relationship you had with the influential other more close, or distant? Was it more warm, or cool? Was communication one-way, or two-way? Did you feel that person knew you, or not? Did you know him or her, or not?
Invariably over 90 percent of the group say they had a warm, close, relationship with the influential others, in which each talked and listened, and in which enough sharing took place that the two seemed to know each other. No wonder Paul said, “You know those from whom you learned.”
Don’t be surprised at persecution from strangers. Just concentrate on building the intimate kind of relationship with others through which faith is most effectively shared.

“All Scripture is God-breathed” 2 Tim. 3:16–17. I’m one of those old-fashioned types who is convinced that the Bible is God’s inspired Word: accurate, trustworthy, reliable in every sense. Perhaps you are too. But Paul merely introduced his theme by affirming Scripture’s inspiration. His point was that Scripture is useful!
The more firmly you and I believe the Bible is the Word of God, the more faithfully we ought to apply it, relate its teachings to our lives, hear its rebukes, heed its correction, and thus let the Scripture equip us “for every good work.”

“Keep your head in all situations” 2 Tim. 4:1–5. It’s not easy to be rejected and ignored. Right now one of my closest friends, who has pastored one church for over 25 years, is feeling the frustration Paul alluded to. Somehow his leadership now seems unwelcome. It’s not that the people have turned “their ears away from the truth.” Its just that, somehow, he seems much less effective than before.
The work of ministry, whether engaged in as a profession, or as an expression of every believer’s faith, is both rewarding and discouraging. When discouragement comes it’s so easy to lose heart—and to fail to keep our heads.
How do we respond? We do the work God has called us to do. For Timothy this was preaching the Word, in and out of season, correcting and rebuking and encouraging—and all with great patience and care. For us, ministry is exactly the same. We have the same Word to share, the same concern for others, that any professional pastor has.
It isn’t necessary that everyone respond favorably to us as we serve them for Jesus’ sake. It is only necessary to “discharge all the duties of your ministry.”

“To all who have longed for His appearing” 2 Tim. 4:6–8. Paul had known plenty of discouragement, and abundant persecution. But he looked back over his life with a sense of satisfaction. Through it all, Paul kept on serving. He fought a good fight. He ran a good race. He kept the faith. And now he looked forward to his reward.
Paul wanted you and me to know that God has the same reward for you and me. We haven’t been turned aside by any rewards this world might offer, or by any threats men of the world might make. We have lived our life here aware that this earth is temporary, and all its pleasures are passing. We have yearned not for the things of earth, but for Jesus to return. And this longing has kept us, as it kept Paul, faithfully committed to whatever ministry God has given us.
Don’t be downhearted, whatever discouragement may come. Even now the bands are gathering in heaven, and the parade is forming. Soon you’ll take your place in the open limo that leads the parade down heaven’s streets to the grandstand where rewards will be distributed. And then you’ll know, with Paul, that it was worth it all.

“The Lord stood at my side and gave me strength” 2 Tim. 4:9–18. We do need the support and encouragement of others. But sometimes we simply do not receive it.
When others fail us, we have been given a great opportunity to experience the faithfulness of our God. He will stand by our side. He will give us strength. And He will rescue us “from every evil attack and will bring us safely to His heavenly kingdom.”

DEVOTIONAL
From Infancy
(2 Tim. 4:10–17)
Our acceptance and nurture in the Scripture usually takes place in the context of some close, intimate relationship. That was definitely the case with Timothy, who came to know and love God’s Word early in life. We have no indication of just how Lois and Eunice shaped young Timothy’s faith. But we do have a list of rules followed by Susannah Wesley, mother of 19 children, including hymn writer Charles Wesley and the founder of Methodism, John Wesley. Here are her “bylaws.”
(1) Cowardness and fear of punishment often lead children into lying. To prevent this, a law was made, that whoever was charged with a fault, of which they were guilty, if they would ingenuously confess it, and promise to amend, should not be beaten.
(2) That no sinful action, as lying, pilfering, playing at church, or on the Lord’s Day, disobedience, quarreling, etc., should ever pass unpunished.
(3) That no child should ever be chided, or beat twice, for the same fault; and that if they amended, they should never be unbraided with it afterward.
(4) That every . . . act of obedience should always be commended, and frequently rewarded, according to the merits of the cause.
(5) That if any child performed an act of obedience, or did anything with an intention to please, though the performance was not well, yet the intention should be kindly accepted; and the child with sweetness directed how to do better in the future.
(6) That propriety be inviolably preserved, and none suffered to invade the property of another in the smallest matter.
(7) That promises be strictly observed; and a gift once bestowed, and so the right passed away from the donor not to be restored, but left to the disposal of him to whom it was given.

Personal Application
The best way to teach the Word to our children is to live it—and to see that it is lived.

Quotable
“The religion of a child depends upon what its mother and its father are, and not on what they say.”—Henri Frederic Amiel

2 Timothy

INTRODUCTION
This last letter of Paul was written during a second imprisonment in Rome, about A.D. 67 or 68. Paul was fully aware he was soon to be executed, and he both encouraged Timothy, who would carry on his work, and warned against the growing corruption of true Christian teaching. The letter throbs with evidence of the great apostle’s triumphant faith, and his confidence in the Lord whom he would soon join.

STRONG IN GRACE
2 Timothy 1–2

“You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 2:1).

Paul exhibited a strength of commitment that Timothy—and we—are expected to imitate.

Background
The setting. Most believe that Paul won release from the imprisonment mentioned at the end of Acts aboutA.D 62. He continued to minister, perhaps in Spain, but was rearrested in the mid-60s. A strong tradition indicates that Paul was executed in Rome during Nero’s reign, aboutA.D 68.
Paul’s conviction that “the time has come for my departure” (4:6) suggests this letter was written during that final imprisonment. If so, what we have here are the last words of Paul: a “deathbed” blessing and exhortation directed to Timothy, but just as applicable to you and to me. All the wisdom and experience of Paul’s long life with his Lord are shared here for our profit and encouragement. So let’s take Paul’s words of advice to heart, and so live that when our time of departure nears, we too will be satisfied that we have “fought the good fight” (v. 7).

Overview
Paul expressed confidence in Timothy (1:1–7). He called on Timothy to be faithful to the Gospel (vv. 8–18) and transmit it accurately (2:1–2). Soldier (vv. 3–4), athlete (v. 5), and farmer (vv. 6–7) illustrate faithfulness to a faithful Lord (vv. 8–13). Ministry demands that one rightly handle God’s Word (vv. 14–19) and pursue righteousness (vv. 20–26).

Understanding the Text
“To Timothy, my dear son” 2 Tim. 1:1–2. It is significant that Paul called Timothy his beloved son. Paul would soon exhort this younger coworker to face and endure great hardships—something we hardly ever want for our children. Yet Paul knew the rewards of suffering for Christ’s sake. He wanted the best for Timothy—and he knew that the path to glory is often marked by hardship and suffering.
We need to remember this in dealing with our own beloveds. We do them no favor by smoothing their way so much that they come to trust us rather than God.

“Your sincere faith” 2 Tim. 1:3–7. Paul kept the delicate balance here between what others can do for us, and what we must do for ourselves. The spark of a parent’s faith can ignite our own. But we must fan it into flame (v. 6).

“Join with me in suffering for the Gospel” 2 Tim. 1:8–11. It is amazing to me what people are willing to suffer for. Some are willing to suffer to reach a mountaintop. Some are willing to suffer to finish an “iron man” competition, that demands they swim 5 miles, bike over 100, and then run a full marathon. Others sacrifice home and family to make more money on a job that takes them constantly on the road.
Paul asks us to suffer for something far more worthwhile. The Gospel is that stunning expression of God’s grace, revealed in Christ’s appearance, that announces God’s victory over death and invites every man to come to Him for “life and immortality.” Now that is something worth suffering for. No wonder Paul said he was “not ashamed” to testify about our Lord!

“I know whom I have believed” 2 Tim. 1:12. Paul didn’t say, “I know what I have believed.” He said, “I know whom.” Our faith does have content, and that content is to be believed. But the foundation of faith is a personal relationship with God through Jesus.
When we can say, with Paul, “I know Him,” we have the same complete confidence that Paul expressed: I “am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him [my very self!] for that day.”

“The pattern of sound teaching” 2 Tim. 1:13–14. “Sound” here is hygiainonton, “healthy.” The teaching Paul gave had unique vitality: it is able to produce a spiritual healthiness that projects “faith and love in Christ Jesus.”
There are two tests for sound doctrine. One is its correspondence with the teaching of the Apostles that is recorded in the Scriptures. The other is its power to produce faith and love in the one who holds it. We may hold orthodox doctrines without being loving persons. But if we are not loving, those doctrines clearly do not have a hold on us.

“Everyone in the province of Asia has deserted me” 2 Tim. 1:15–18. “Asia” here means the Roman province, in what is now part of Turkey. Ephesus, where Paul spent some three years, was its leading city. How tragic then that “everyone” there turned away from Paul, even though perhaps we can understand why.
Nero focused the existing hostility of the general populace against the Jews on the Christians. The arrest of both Peter and Paul, and their execution inA.D 68, suggests that it had become dangerous to be associated in the official mind with these Christian leaders. So perhaps fear motivated many to abandon Paul.
But fear did not deter one man Paul had known in Ephesus: Onesiphorus. Rather than distance himself from Paul, Onesiphorus came to Rome and searched until he found Paul. He must have asked dozens of minor officials where Paul was—and been firmly linked to Paul in their minds. How fortunate Paul was to have at least one loyal and faithful friend.
Such loyalty might bring us into danger in this world. But Paul was sure that Onesiphorus will “find mercy from the Lord on that day!”

“Entrust to reliable men” 2 Tim. 2:1–2. Verse 2 is inscribed on the seal of the seminary that I attended. Truth is passed on from generation to generation by those gifted by God to instruct others in the meaning of what is now recorded in Scripture.
Yet each of us is a transmitter, not only of truth, but of life. As Lois and Eunice, the grandmother and mother of Timothy, shared the spark of their faith with him, so each of us communicates the reality of our faith to those closest to us.

“Endure hardship with us like a good soldier” 2 Tim. 2:3–4. Paul now gives us three images of Christian ministry. This ministry he wrote of is not just for the full-time Christian worker. These images fit the ministries of each of us—to family, to friends, to neighbors.
The first image is military, and emphasizes disciplined commitment. We try to please our commanding officer. An easy life, distractions from our goal, these are all to be rejected. We’re to pick up our packs, and march through life as men and women on a mission.

“If anyone competes as an athlete” 2 Tim. 2:5. In swimming, the course is carefully laid out. Stray from your lane, and you will be disqualified.
The image of the athlete competing within the rules is another picture of full dedication. The soldier who wants to please his commander doesn’t get involved in civilian affairs (v. 4), and the athelete who wants to win doesn’t wander from his lane.

“The hardworking farmer” 2 Tim. 2:6–7. The last image adds a new dimension to Paul’s analogies. The “hardworking farmer” has to be patient and wait to enjoy the fruit of his labor. He deserves a share of the crop. But the crop isn’t available when he plows the ground. The crop isn’t there when he plants the seed, or hoes the weeds, or even when he shoos birds away from the ripening grain.
Like the soldier and athlete, we discipline ourselves to serve. And like the hardworking farmer, we discipline ourselves to wait patiently until the crop of righteousness we have planted ripens. But we wait confidently, for we know God is faithful. He will give us a larger share of the crop than our labors deserve.

“Remember Jesus Christ” 2 Tim. 2:8–13. Remembering Jesus is what sustains us as we serve Him, waiting expectantly for rewards that seldom are granted here and now.
The “trustworthy saying” Paul shares with us is likely drawn from the liturgy of the early church. It is a hymn or confession encouraging the faithful to look ahead, and take heart at the thought of Christ’s faithfulness. The faith even of the true believer may wane. But even “if we are faithless, He will remain faithful.”
It is this absolute confidence in Jesus’ commitment to us that gives us the strength to live and die with Him, and to endure whatever comes.

“Who correctly handles the Word of truth” 2 Tim. 2:14–19. Context helps us understand Paul’s intent. Scripture is not something to be debated. It is to be applied to deepen our faith in God, and to produce righteousness.
This is God’s “solid foundation,” that no twisting of His Word can shake. While only the Lord can look into hearts, and know who belongs to Him, those who do belong will “turn away from wickedness” (v. 19).

“Along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart” 2 Tim. 2:22. Human beings have always been vulnerable to the influence of others. This is why Paul calls on us to “pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace along with” others who share our commitment to Christ.
We express concern over the peer group’s influence on our teens. But what we need to realize is that God’s plan is to use every person’s peer group in a positive way! This is why we have such a deep need for Christian fellowship. The encouragement of others is vital for our own pursuit of righteousness.

“He must gently instruct” 2 Tim. 2:23–26. Other’s may “oppose” us. But in ministering to others we must always remember that we are on their side! We are not trying to win an argument, but to win a person who desperately needs to “come to [his] senses and escape from the trap of the devil.”
Heated argument is the worst possible way to accomplish this task, and so Paul said that God’s servant “must not quarrel,” but “be kind to everyone” and “gently instruct.” We rely on love, and on the Spirit of God who is at work through us in others’ lives.
If this is our outlook, we’ll be freed from that terrible urge to compete, and to “win” arguments at the cost of losing others’ souls.

DEVOTIONAL
Noble Purposes
(2 Tim. 2:20–26)
The most common archeological find in biblical lands are pieces of broken pottery. When Paul spoke of many “articles” (KJV, “vessels”) found in every household, he meant the ceramic and wooden as well as the metal pots, bowls, and dishes that furnished first-century homes. But his reference to a “large house” and to gold and silver made it clear that he had in mind the home of a very wealthy person indeed.
Of course, even the wealthy used the more common clay vessels for ordinary (“ignoble”) things. But, even as today we bring out the best china and the silver when guests come, the householder reserved his best vessels to use when an opportunity for “noble” use presented itself.
Paul’s point was that in the church of Jesus everyone is a useful vessel. But some, perhaps because they have not dedicated themselves to a pursuit of righteousness (v. 22), or have not cleansed themselves of a hostile attitude (vv. 24–25), are fit only for the most ordinary tasks.
What is exciting is that Paul suggested each us can become vessels suitable for God to use for the most noble purposes of all. If we will cleanse ourselves, and commit ourselves to holiness, you and I can be “useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.”

Personal Application
To be used, we must be useable.

Quotable
“Behold, Lord, an empty vessel that needs to be filled. My Lord, fill it. I am weak in the faith, strengthen me. I am cold in love; warm me and make me fervent, that my love may go out to my neighbor. I do not have a strong and firm faith; at times I doubt and am unable to trust You altogether. O Lord, help me. In you I have sealed the treasure of all I have. Therefore I will remain with You, of whom I can receive, but to whom I may not give.”—Martin Luther

CONTENTMENT
1 Timothy 6

“Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it” (1 Tim. 6:6–7).

It’s fine to have money as long as money doesn’t have you.

Overview
Even servitude provides opportunities to minister (6:1–2). A love of money characterizes false teachers (vv. 3–5) and is a trap believers are wise to avoid (vv. 6–10). Godly people pursue righteousness (vv. 11–16), and view their wealth as providing opportunities to do good (vv. 17–21).

Understanding the Text
“Those who benefit from their service” 1 Tim. 6:1–2. The New Testament has a unique outlook on relationships. There is no shame in being a slave, because servitude provides a person with an opportunity to benefit others. The thought is reflected in other passages. Whatever role God gives us in life provides some opportunity to do others good.
The husband who loves his wife shows the same concern for her needs that Christ showed for the church. Thus “headship” is transformed by Jesus’ example from a grab for power to a commitment to servanthood. In the same way the wife’s “in subjection” position is not demeaning, but a description of one way she takes the lead in serving her husband.
You and I need to adopt this biblical perspective in all that we do. Are you an employee? Then work hard, to help your employer make a profit. Are you an employer? Then make sure you pay your workers a fair wage, and that you have a real concern for each one’s welfare.
When we see each relationship as a God-given opportunity to minister, all of our relationships with others will be fulfilling. And we will glorify God in them.

“Who think that godliness is a means to financial gain” 1 Tim. 6:3–5. One attribute of the false teacher, mentioned in nearly every New and Old Testament passage on the subject, is a love for money. They slip on a cloak of religion, not because they love God, but because they see it as a way to make a buck.
Paul noted other attributes: they invent distinctive and false doctrines to set themselves off from others (v. 3). They have an unhealthy interest in controversy—often encouraging suspicion of or antagonism toward others (v. 4). And those who follow their teachings are characterized by envy and malice rather than by Christian love (v. 5).
We need to be alert for such signs when popular new teachers appear. But more than that, we need to be alert for an unhealthy interest in money arising in our own hearts. Godliness often costs us opportunities to pile up earthly riches, and seldom pays material dividends. But it sure pays off in the end!

“Godliness with contentment” 1 Tim. 6:6–8. When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread,” He didn’t use the wrong word. Sometimes I know I’d feel more comfortable if I had my “10 years bread” socked away in CDs or a money market fund. But if I did, I wouldn’t have the same motivation to rely on God for tomorrow’s, or this week’s, or this month’s needed income.
What God wants me to cultivate is an attitude of contentment with what I have now. Having “food and clothing,” Paul said, “we will be content with that.” God provides the necessities—and I don’t need the luxuries.
How do I know? Why, when I die, nothing material I’ve gained will be taken with me. But the essential “me”—all that I am as an individual, all that I have or will become, is carried on into eternity. In the last analysis, nothing else counts.
So if you’re not rich, count it a blessing. The opportunity to deepen your faith in God as you trust Him for daily bread is a great blessing. For the more godly person that you are becoming will enter God’s presence, and every material possession will be left behind.

“The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” 1 Tim. 6:9–10. The common misquote of this verse says, “Money is the root of all evil.” This is a double misunderstanding. Money isn’t bad in itself, and having money doesn’t automatically make you a bad person. And, every evil does not find its roots in money. Much good is done by money given by Christians and used to help others.
What Paul warned against is a love for money, for that passion for wealth can motivate a person to any and every sort of evil deed. Love for money can lead a person to lie, to defraud others, to betray friends, to steal, cheat, slander, and murder. A person whose goal is to get rich is sure to be betrayed by that passion.
If riches come, it’s all right to welcome them. But it is a “temptation and a trap” to desire them (see DEVOTIONAL).

“Flee from all this” 1 Tim. 6:11. The Christian life isn’t one of negatives. Wherever there is a “don’t,” we find implied a “do.”
It’s the same with a desire for money. Paul said flee this kind of thing. And then he listed values to hold in money’s place. What are we to love and pursue if we don’t love and pursue money? Why, righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.
So when it comes to making decisions, we have some pretty clear guidelines. Which choice accords with righteousness? Which will help me grow in godliness? Which will help me develop and express faith, love, endurance, and gentleness?
Try using these guidelines when you make the significant decisions in your life. You’ll find true contentment. And you’ll spare yourself a lot of grief!

“In the sight of God” 1 Tim. 6:13–16. Sometimes we can fool ourselves about the motives for our actions. But we can never deceive God. And, deep down, you and I usually know when what we are doing is out of God’s will.
Paul used powerful words to remind us that we live “in the sight of God” when he urged Timothy, and us as well, to “take hold of the eternal life to which you were called.”
Ordinary people “take hold of” earthly life, and understandably pursue earthly goals. We can’t criticize the non-Christian for being motivated by money and the power or security he thinks it will bring. But you and I have been called to eternal life! We’ve been called to live here on earth in the constant awareness that our destiny is eternity. We know that life here flickers but for a brief moment, and then as we pass into the presence of God will burn brightly forever and ever. You and I, then, should never be deceived, or take the empty goals of earthlings as our own.
So let’s live “in the sight of God,” not only aware that He sees us, but seeing Him. If God is ever before us, the vision of His glory will release us from the inferior desires.

“Those who are rich” 1 Tim. 6:17–21. Earlier Paul asked us to view slavery as an opportunity to serve. Now he reminded the rich that their wealth gave them a unique opportunity to serve others.
But again, attitude is important. The rich are not to count on their riches, nor to guard their wealth jealously. Instead the rich are to “put their hope in God,” and “be rich in good deeds.” A generous rich man is a bright jewel in God’s crown. And, in being generous, the rich will find a meaning in life that they would otherwise never know (v. 19).

DEVOTIONAL
Eager for Money
(1 Tim. 6:6–11)
“I want a college major that will prepare me to make a lot of money.”
“I want to marry a millionaire.”
“I need to take this transfer if I’m going to advance in the company.”
I suppose each of these statements expresses a pretty common viewpoint. Each, however, also expresses something else. Each makes it clear that eagerness for money is a value that determines the speaker’s decisions.
Paul had a lot of sympathy for such folks, because they’ve missed something vital in Christian faith, and have set out on a course that’s likely to “pierce themselves with many griefs.”
Why? Well, for one thing, we Christians are placed here on earth to serve others and to glorify God. Looking at college as a ticket to some high-paying job means that the person is not looking at his life-work in a Christian perspective. All too many fast-track businessmen over 40 look back, and realize that in their pursuit of money they’ve sacrificed their families, health, and their own higher ideals. The grief they feel when it’s too late can never be assuaged by a six-figure salary, even with bonuses.
The girl who wants to marry a millionaire is being totally unrealistic about marriage. The qualities that make for a happy, successful, and lasting marriage can’t be measured by one’s bank account. If such women are unfortunate enough to find their millionaire, they all too often pay a high price in loneliness, lovelessness, and unhappiness.
The person who evaluates a transfer only in terms of financial benefit is also ignoring more important values. Is the family settled down in the present community, with a circle of good Christian friends, and a significant church life? How will the spouse and children be affected by a move just for the sake of the career? Again, moves motivated by a desire for money have often proven disastrous, and created many griefs for the individual and his or her family.
What Paul is saying to us isn’t that we should ignore the economics of our decisions. He is warning us that if we find an eagerness for money pushing out consideration of other, more important values, we’re in serious personal and spiritual danger. We can be sure of one thing. That desire for money was not given to us by God.

Personal Application
Keep “money” last on your list of reasons for making any significant decision in your life.

Quotable
“Of all temptations, none so struck at the whole work of God as the deceitfulness of riches, a thousand melancholy proofs of which I have seen during my fifty-year ministry. How deceitful indeed are riches! Only a few—perhaps sixty, maybe not even half that—of the rich people I have known during my fifty years of ministry, as far as I can judge, were as holy being rich as they would have been had they been poor.”—Charles Wesley