Paul gives Timothy this instruction at the close of his first letter to Timothy.

But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.

1 Timothy 6:11 (NIV)

The “but” here refers to the previous seven verses, where Paul talks about false teachers and the love of money. Paul points out that pursuing riches is a “trap” that “plunge[s] people into ruin and destruction” (1 Timothy 6:9 NIV). Then Paul tells Timothy something that is often misinterpreted and misunderstood. 

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

1 Timothy 6:10 (NIV)

Many say money is the root of all evil, but the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. Money itself is nothing more than a tool. Yet, like any tool, it can be used for good or ill. 

Although Paul refers to Timothy, the “man of God” in 1 Timothy 6:11, every man and woman of God would be wise to follow Paul’s encouragement. To flee from the love of money and all worldly things “and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.” Fortunately, Paul instructs Timothy on how to do that.

Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses (emphasis added).

1 Timothy 6:12 (NIV)

As Christians, we are on the path to eternal life. Before we were saved, we were on the way to eternal damnation. Thus, we must live lives worthy of the calling we have received. 

Do you know God? God knows you, and he loves you. He sees you as significant because you are. No one is insignificant to Him. He’s with you today, and he wants you to know him. Jesus died for your sins and mine so we could be free of guilt, freed from death, and live eternally with him. Eternal salvation is just a prayer away.

Pray this prayer with me to accept the gift of salvation:

Lord Jesus, forgive me for all my sins. I repent from my ways. Wash me in your blood and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. I believe that you died on the cross, were buried, and on the third day, God the Father raised you from the dead. Right now, Lord Jesus, I open the door to my heart and receive you into my heart as my Lord and personal Savior. Amen.

If you prayed that prayer, then congratulations! You are on the first step of a brand new life. Allow me to be the first to welcome you to my family, the family of God. There are abundant resources available online for new Christians. You can visit here for more information on what to do next. You can also leave me a comment, and I’ll do my best to help you on the next step of this incredible journey.