1 Timothy 5:21–22 (ESV) — 21 In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of
the elect angels I charge you to keep these rules without prejudging, doing
nothing from partiality. 22 Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, nor take
part in the sins of others; keep yourself pure.
NOTE: I wish I knew
Timothy better. I know he his young. He does not seem to command the respect of
more forceful personalities. He is timid. I would be surprised if he showed
partiality, but he sounds like a person who can flow with the crowd. He does not
have to be in charge, and therefore he is susceptible to manipulation by
other's opinions. Without realizing his fault, his instinct to join the crowd
or not to cause waves can cause him to be on the wrong side of the issue. Paul
seems to be telling him that he needs to stand up on his own and on his own
convictions. Think through things before agreeing. Try to determine the
principle or underlying factors in the issue. Don't be dogmatic, be willing to
listen to arguments, but don't be wishy-washy and easily swayed as well.
PRAYER: Father, we
all need to be a little more discriminating in our views. We need to listen
carefully and we need to be willing to reevaluate our own views. Give us
discernment and kindness toward others. I pray we would not fall into the trap
of immediately judging others.
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