Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching. Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you. 1 Timothy 4:13-16
Over time, I think we all develop certain habits, routines and disciplines. Certain disciplines can assist our spiritual growth (closeness with God, formation of Christlike character qualities, etc.) Among those are daily reading of the Bible, exposing ourselves to godly teaching, and using the gifts God has given us for the betterment of others. That’s what the apostle Paul recommended for young Timothy. Give painstaking attention to these things and become absorbed in them. Now, that’s some good advice. While we still have all the daily activities and demands upon our lives, we should give priority to our spiritual development.
How much effort and attention do I place in the area of my own spiritual development? Am I grateful for those who have helped build me up?
God, as I go about the myriad of tasks today… I will give attention to You, Your Word, the gifts You’ve given, and the teachings of others that will help me become more like Jesus in word, thought and deed.
