1 TIMOTHY 4:12

Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.

TO PONDER 

Nurture or nature. This was a term often brought up when studying for teacher training. It was linked to the behaviour, or more likely the misbehaviour of the child in the classroom. We explored the concept in a psychology class, because as a teacher, it is sometimes important to know the ‘why’ behind the undesirable behaviour.  

Our theology tells us that due to original sin, it’s nature. 

But there’s also the response to the gift God has given us, and that is to live as a child of God, meaning we will do our best to act in love, faith and purity. Usually, our parents are instrumental in bringing up their children as responsible citizens in God’s world – and that’s nurture.    

I reckon Paul knew this when writing this instructional letter to his co-worker, Timothy. It’s an encouragement to Tim, and an encouragement to us. 

So it’s ok to be reminded of our original sin – the nature bit - but then always always finish with the gospel. Always remember that Jesus overcame the sin for us, giving us the opportunity to live in love and faith and purity.      

PRAYER: Thanks, Lord, for your servants throughout the ages that have kept us on the straight and narrow path. Help us to do this and shove us back on the path when we begin to fall off or lose our way. Amen 

Today's devotion written by Mark Simpfendorfer, LifeWay Epping.