Pursue godliness
Day 646, Tuesday, May 19
1 Timothy 6:2-21
Paul wraps up 1 Timothy with a warning against those who sow divisiveness. “If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, they are conceited and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.”
Paul also warns that those who want to get rich can fall into temptation. “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” He also urges that the wealthy put their hope in God, not money and be generous and willing to share.
In contrast to those whose words lead to division, Paul urges Timothy, “But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

-Rev. Mark Fleming

Tuesday meditation

Psalms 119:161-168
Rulers persecute me without cause, but my heart trembles at your word. I rejoice in your promise like one who finds great spoil. I hate and detest falsehood but I love your law. Seven times a day I praise you for your righteous laws. Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble. I wait for your salvation, Lord, and I follow your commands. I obey your statutes, for I love them greatly. I obey your precepts and your statutes, for all my ways are known to you.

Prayer focus
God, let us not be among those who bring division and argue to the sake of pride. Instead, let us pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.