Tom Hlad encourages the students that no matter what their degree is, they are still servants of God. He looks at 1 Timothy 4 and lists three “tools” for the students to be equipped with. They need spiritual health, to set an example, and to faithfully endure.

Scripture Text

1 Timothy 4:6-16

Main Points or Ideas

Spiritual Health (verses 6-10)

• As an athlete needs physical health to compete, believers need spiritual health to withstand spiritual battles
• Have the right diet by being trained in the Word of God and sound doctrine, never allowing the Bible to become merely a textbook
• Have the right training by pursuing godliness and avoiding irreverent, silly myths and worthless arguments that do not advance God's kingdom
• Have the right foundation with hope set on the living God who is the Savior of all people, especially those who believe

Godly Example (verses 11-12)

• Don't let anyone look down on you because of your youth, but come with confidence and humility
• Set an example for believers in speech (building up rather than tearing down), conduct (actions that reflect Christ with nothing disqualifying), love (selfless, agape love for all people), faith (trusting God in all situations), and purity (moral integrity in a corrupt world)
• Be a lighthouse that shines bright, pointing people in the right direction toward Christ

Staying Focused (verses 13-16)

• Devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture - be addicted to being in the Word daily for personal feeding, not just study
• Exercise the gifts God has given you while in school and in ministry involvement
• Practice these things and immerse yourself in them, giving painful attention to spiritual disciplines
• Keep close watch on yourself and your doctrine, persisting in these things

Conclusion

Paul challenged Timothy to be a great servant of God by maintaining spiritual health, setting a godly example, and staying focused on the essentials. When faced with the desire to quit or feelings of discouragement, believers should return to these basic disciplines and continue pressing forward in faithful service.