Jan. 20

Read 1 Timothy 4

^15-16Cultivate these things. Immerse yourself in them. The people will all see you mature right before their eyes! Keep a firm grasp on both your character and your teaching. Don't be diverted. Just keep at it. Both you and those who hear you will experience salvation. (The Message)

Most people don't grow up before our eyes. Maturity usually takes time and time does not allow for us to see the changes in front of us because they take so long. When we are away for some time and we see children who have grown up we comment upon it and are amazed by the changes but when we see them on a regular basis it is just something that just happens. But Paul knows of something that not only will bring maturity for Timothy, but that it will happen in front of people who he sees on a regular basis. Paul knows that when Timothy dives into the ways of Jesus it will bring changes, not gradual changes, but huge changes!
The good news is that those changes can still be seen in people today who throw there lives in with Jesus. when one prays, fasts, serves, worships, and so much more it brings a fundamental change to who one is and how they relate to the world around them. They grow up right in front of those who see them daily.
The question is do you want to grow up and who do you want to grow up to become?

Some thoughts to ponder and share with others:

• What do you think might have been some of the difficulties that Timothy faced being a young leader?
• Have you ever had trouble being seen as a grown up by those who were around you the most when you were a child? What is that like?
• What part of your life needs to grow up or mature in Jesus?
• What might you do so that you are more likely to become mature in Christ?