When we as believers argue and spend time in irreverent talk, we actually lead people toward things that are worldly and not toward godliness.

Paul gives Timothy—and us—a clear contrast between leaders driven by ego and controversy and those who pursue righteousness, faith, and steadfast love.

Paul urged Timothy to stay anchored in love, purity, and sincere faith while calling out false teaching. Prayer—especially for all people and all leaders—is what keeps our hearts centered on God’s mission instead of empty discussions and cultural distractions.

We all probably want the ones we love and, frankly, ourselves to be among the mature, because maturity brings the best chance at a healthy and purposeful life.

Timothy would soon be without his mentor Paul. He would also be facing new and more difficult challenges in his ministry, and his older and wiser mentor was trying to prepare him for the journey yet to come.

I have tried to live in such a way that I heard the nudge from God telling me what to do next. I’m noticing today that Paul’s words to Timothy can help me figure that out in the future.

We might all wish someone would refer to us the way Paul described Timothy. We might all like to be a friend and partner like the ones that made Paul’s ministry possible.