1 Timothy 6: 2c-12
Beloved:
Teach and urge these duties. Whoever teaches otherwise and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that is in accordance with godliness, is conceited, understanding nothing, and has a morbid craving for controversy and for disputes about words. From these come envy, dissension, slander, base suspicions, and wrangling among those who are depraved in mind and bereft of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain. Of course, there is great gain in godliness combined with contentment; for we brought nothing into the world, so that we can take nothing out of it; but if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these. But those who want to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and in their eagerness to be rich some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains.
But as for you, man of God, shun all this; pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life, to which you were called and for which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
New Revised Standard Version, copyright 1989, by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. USCCB approved.
Living a Life of Faith
Today’s reading emphasizes the need to turn away from evil and the love of money. Instead, we are called to “fight the good fight of the faith” and seek love, righteousness, peace, and godliness in an effort to steer clear of the kinds of evils that disrupt our spiritual life. As believers, we strive to have a purpose and allow God’s love to transform our actions and lead us to a better life.
Lean into God and accept the strength he brings while letting him fight the good fight along with us. We cannot fight with human strength alone; distractions of a materialistic world are ever-present. In what ways have you chosen to fight a spiritual battle against sin and worldly desires in exchange for a peaceful and faith-filled life?
—Ann Power Greene serves as Senior Director of Advancement Operations for the Midwest Province in Chicago.
Prayer
“I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)
Father God, my strength is gone. I am unable – but your word says I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Give me your strength, not physical strength, but the power to move mountains that flow from faith in Jesus. Help me to depend on you to do what I think I cannot do. Let your strength alone sustain me.
—From a prayer posted on ibelieve.com
Pray with the Pope
Pray with the monthly prayer intentions of the pope.