1 Timothy 4:15–16 (ESV) — 15 Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so
that all may see your progress. 16 Keep a close watch
on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save
both yourself and your hearers.
NOTE: These verses
and the verses around them emphasize the importance of discipline in the
Christian life. Others may criticize the Intentional Discipleship Groups (IDG)
for the amount of effort, discipline, and requirements imposed on the attendees
-- Paul does no less for his son in the faith. Paul's emphasis is not just to
practice them, but to immerse yourself in them. Discipline is a way of life,
not a temporary activity. And there is protection in discipline as the
following verse 16 suggests. In this verse, "save" is not eternal
salvation but the spiritual and physical protection that comes in this life by
teaching and doing the right things. Again, this is not to infer a health and
wealth gospel, but a protection from the consequences of worldly fruit by a
right living philosophy. Jesus did not promise an easy life, but he did promise
to be there with us, and he also promised to bring good out of every
circumstance (Rom 12:28).
PRAYER: Father,
protect me from the wiles of the evil one. Give me strength and power as I
exercise discipline so that my life may be godly and pleasing to you.
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