1 Timothy 5 - 8.11.25

Scripture

1 Timothy 5:24-25

24 The sins of some are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them; the sins of others trail behind them. 25 In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not obvious cannot remain hidden forever.

Observation

The book of 1 Timothy is a letter from the Apostle Paul to Timothy, who was his spiritual son and mentee. Paul had to leave Ephesus, but he wanted Timothy to stay. (Zondervan’s Compact Bible Dictionary)

In this portion of the letter, he is giving Timothy a summary of how to treat people in the church. (Enduringword.com)

“In addition, Paul strongly warns Timothy to use much caution in selecting elders (1 Tmothy 5:22-25). Both sins and good deeds can be hidden from the eyes of other people. God, however, is well aware of them.” (Bibleref.com)

Although 1 Timothy was written from one seasoned pastor to a newer pastor, we can learn a lot about integrity from this passage. 

Application

Live a life of integrity. 

The best definition for integrity that I have heard is being the same person when no one is looking as when people are looking. It is to be honest and consistent. 

It is better to be caught doing good than caught doing bad. The latter, when exposed, has messed up so many ministers’ lives and testimonies in Christ.  However, when the good is exposed, it leads others to praise God (Matthew 5:16, 1 Peter 2:12)!

I love how it says in verse 25 that even the good deeds, which may not be obvious, cannot remain hidden forever. That is such an encouragement, especially when we feel that the good we are doing or have done is not being seen. Scripture says that God sees ALL of it! 

Everything we do in private is seen by God; both good and bad. Let’s focus on the good. It always pays when we choose to live a life of integrity. It glorifies God! 

Prayer

Dear Lord,

I know that it’s impossible to live a life of integrity apart from You. Change my heart to be like Yours. Help me to always seek to do good to others. Help me to always live consistently whether I am seen or not seen. May my life point others to You alone Jesus. Amen. 

-Michelle Gaddi