The Christian Under Human Government (8) - All The LORD is near Daily Devotionals for 2024

I urge you in the sight of God who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus who witnessed the good confession before Pontius Pilate, that you keep this commandment without spot, blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ's appearing.
1 Timothy 6:13-14

The Christian Under Human Government (8)
All true believers are in the house of the living God . Thus, they are part of God's testimony to this world, even when living under an anti-God government, facing satanic opposition (4:1-5). In this context, it is important to look at the instructions Paul wrote to his co-worker. Timothy should be "a man of God" and represent Him in an environment of opposition, fleeing the desire to be rich (6:9-11). Timothy, as well as each committed Christian, should flee worldly desires and pursue God's rights, honoring Him in a world that rejects Him. All Christians committed to God's interest will encounter some form of opposition. Serving Him properly is doing it with godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness (v. 11). This implies fighting the good fight of faith, while looking forward to what lies ahead, namely, the realm of eternal life (v. 12). For we expect the appearing in glory of our Lord Jesus Christ (vv. 14-15).

Many Christians are living under a government that opposes God's interests. Paul, therefore, encourages all of us to act and walk as is fitting to true Christians: not being arrogant, proud, or self-sufficient, but rather putting our trust in God, doing good works, and looking forward to what lies ahead (vv. 17-19). Thus, we can survive in an environment opposed to God, while constantly watching and checking ourselves in true self-judgment (v. 20). Let's persevere!

May the Lord help us to be faithful instruments for the Master's use and encourage the believers until He comes!

Alfred E. Bouter