But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness.
1 Timothy 6:11
In the preceding verses of this chapter, Paul was admonishing against letting riches and love of money become the root of temptation and ungodliness. (1 Timothy 6:9-10) Instead Paul encourages us to seek the attributes of righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness and gentleness.
These attributes are the same or very similar, to the fruits of the spirit stated in Galatians 5. It could be inferred that wherever these attributes are found, God’s love abides also. When we are obeying God by seeking these attributes, his pleasure will rest over us. True and inner joy (not just happiness), which is found only in the Lord and not in possessions or worldly pleasures, will be our reward.
Let us seek this glorious joy!
Prayer
Our Heavenly Father, we thank you for these teachings from Paul in your Word. We understand that you request us to be joyful always. You want us to be grateful for the gift of the Holy Spirit dwelling in us to help us seek all the fruits of the spirit.
Thank you for the example left for us by your son Jesus, and for your Word to guide and lead us to obey you.
We pray for all clergy, within our diocese and beyond, and all Christian ministers who lead and teach your earthly Church worldwide. We pray they will remain true to your Word, just like Paul. We pray protection over them and their loved ones.
Dear Lord, we also lift up the women’s retreat to you and ask that your will be done. We ask that this year’s theme of divine “Joy” will resonate throughout the event, including the worship, prayers, fellowships and workshops. We pray all attendees will find true joy in your Word to the glory of your name – Amen
Solape Delano
Prayer Coordinator for JOY 2020
