Godly men and women!
Scripture reading for September 25: 1 Timothy 2
“I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling; likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with raided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness–with good works. Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness.” 1 Timothy 2:8-11
Paul began his letter to Timothy by encouraging him to lead the church he pastored in prayer. Prayer for all people, especially those in authority, helps all focus on living peaceful and godly lives. God desires His people to live in peace and to conduct their lives in such a way that the culture and spiritual atmosphere is such that children can be raised to know God and serve Him and that the church can advance the Gospel by reaching those that are lost. Believers are the salt and light God provides to bring out a fresh revelation of God’s goodness and mercy.
Men were to assume their place as leaders of their homes and church families and to set a godly example of lifting holy hands in prayer. They were to avoid anger, quarreling, and dissention. These things hinder prayer and disrupt the peace. Women should be careful how they dress and act. In a pagan culture, sexual immorality and lewdness were acceptable to promote selfish desires, but in God’s kingdom women were called to godliness and modesty. The dressing of the body for sensual attraction and pleasure was not proper in that God called them to a higher standard of behavior. These women should do good works and conduct themselves with modesty while raising godly children and living in submission to their godly husband’s leadership. These instructions were sorely needed in the culture of that time, but are very relevant for our time as well!
When you read this passage, are you somewhat embarrassed or ashamed to discuss it because of our permissive culture? What do you think about the roles of men and women in our time? Are there any changes that should be made in your own attitudes and actions towards roles of men and women?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for designing men and women uniquely and wonderfully. Thank You for the roles and dignity that are assigned to each gender. Help me as a man to lift up holy hands in prayer and lead my family in praying for those in authority. Help me to honor women and their role of dignity and support. Amen.
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