2 Timothy 1:3

[The apostle Paul wrote:] “Timothy, I thank God for you – the God I serve with a

clear conscience, just as my ancestors did. Night and day I constantly remember

you in my prayers.”

Paul’s second letter to his young friend Timothy is deeply moving. Paul knew that he

was close to death and was keen to do everything he could to encourage, strengthen

and direct Timothy in his ministry. He knew it was absolutely vital that Timothy had a

clear conscience. When we trudge through life with a guilty conscience, it is an

oppressive burden to bear. I’m sure Paul’s colourful early life had left him with many

sins and failures which weighed heavily on him, and it was out of relief that he could

now declare, as a Christian, that he lived with a clear conscience.

There is a delightful German proverb which runs: “A good conscience is a soft pillow.”

We can sleep soundly when our conscience is clear. No wonder Paul was so keen that

Timothy should share his experience of a clear conscience – he could then get on with

his ministry without being dragged down by guilt and regret. George Washington, the

first president of the USA, got to the heart of the matter when he wrote: “Labour to keep

alive in your breast that little spark of celestial fire, conscience.”

The strength of Paul’s relationship with Timothy comes out in these opening sentences

of the letter. He is longing to meet up again, recalling Timothy’s tears when they last

said goodbye. Paul said that he would be full of joy when they could meet again, and he

expressed his depth of relationship with Timothy in prayer. He said that he prayed for

Timothy night and day. Prayer was not a formal and occasional activity but a continual

stream of loving care and concern. He longed for the best for Timothy, and his prayers

revealed his deep commitment to his young friend.

Question

What are the most effective ways to maintain a clear conscience?

Prayer

Lord God, help me to walk so closely to you that I will be able to serve you with a clear

conscience. Amen