Text- Philippians 3:12 – “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus”
In the course of this series, we have established the importance of following to the Christian faith, and to life in general. I have also shown you that in this race of destiny, you must follow after God, your Spiritual Father, them who through faith and patience inherit the promises and that which is good.
When Peter compelled the people to be followers of that which is good, there is a wide range of possibilities of what that could mean. Let’s examine a few of them.
“But you, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness”
- 1 Timothy 6:11
Paul was outlining to Timothy, some good things that he should follow after. Let’s take them one by one; I have given a definition of each of them, excerpted from Noah Webster
- Righteousness
A pure heart and an upright life; it includes all we call justice, honesty and virtue, with holy affections. In short, it is true religion.
- Godliness
Godliness is piety; belief in God, and reverence for his character and laws. It is a careful observance of the laws of God, and performance of our duties towards Him, proceeding not from a sense of obligation by compulsion, but from love and reverence for divine character and commands.
- Faith
The assent of mind to the truth of what is declared and/or revealed by God, resting on His authority and veracity, without seeking further evidence.
- Love
An affection of the mind that is evident in benevolence, kindness, charity, civility, and goodwill towards others, as well as other qualities that render social interactions agreeable.
- Patience
Patience is endurance without murmuring or fretfulness. A calm temper which bears pain or provocation, while waiting for justice or an expected good without discontent; it connotes perseverance, constancy in labor and exertion.
- Meekness
This is humility, as opposed to pride, arrogance and refractoriness. A meek person has a soft temper, and has an overall quality of mildness and gentleness.
These are basic examples of good things you must follow after. There are certainly many more, which cannot possibly be exhausted in many volumes of books. As you encounter them in life’s journey, follow after them.
PRAYER
Father, make me humble at heart that I may be able to follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness , so that my life and walk with you will become better in Jesus Name.
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