Just as we’ve all been doing for the past few millennia, I skipped ahead this morning. I glanced at 1 Timothy 2 and read the last few verses and my stomach sunk. This chapter has been hotly debated by theologians far more versed than I in the original languages, in historical context, and in all kinds of study. How can I possibly add to the conversation?
To write about 1 Timothy 2 for a community of women who will all have some sort of pain or story or lens through which they read this chapter feels too daunting for me. But then my eyes catch the last words of it: “continue in faith, love, and holiness, with good sense” (1Timothy 2:15). What does it mean, first, for me to honor and obey these words before I think of communicating them to others? Chiefly it means to exercise self-control and read from the beginning. My eyes moved back up the page to these words:
“First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good, and it pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (vv.1–4).
“First of all, then…”
There is an order to these words. Paul wants to communicate something to Timothy: that all people in all places need “petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings” made on their behalf, and in doing so it leads to a “tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity” (vv.1–2). It gives dignity to all people everywhere when we pray for them, thank God for them, and intercede on their behalf.
It seems to me the enemy’s best ploy is to steal our dignity, our quietness, and our peace by disordering our reading. Enticing us to lack self-control and skip passages, cherry-picking the most difficult or most beautiful to meet whatever need we have in ourselves or see in culture. But to live quietly, peacefully, and with dignity, we must read in order and, in some ways, do in order.
Before we argue about hotly debated subjects, do we first dignify one another by praying, interceding, and giving thanks for each other? Are we first people of peace by offering supplication (the action of asking or begging for something earnestly or humbly) on behalf of their personhood, character, story, theology, and personality? Are we primarily people of quietness, trusting that it is God who changes hearts and minds and stories—not us?
There is so much division in our world today. One needs only a cursory glance at the news to know brokenness abounds. But it’s not just in culture; it’s in the Church, too—this passage is a prime example of passages that divide instead of unite. How, then, can we be people who first pray before debate, who first intercede before we interject, and who first give thanks before we theologize?
This morning, as I write, I want to stay in the first few verses of 1 Timothy 2 before I move further down in the passage. I want to learn to pray with this kind of open-handedness to the God of the universe on behalf of all people everywhere.
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104 thoughts on "Pray for Everyone"
Anna Hicks, thank you for that article!
Blue Letter Bible app has a good commentary on this subject. It basically says that just as child bearing was a consequence of the fall, child bearing was also the avenue of salvation (the messiah into the world)! Not that a woman is saved by having a baby.
I was looking at the day or two after this and hope the obvious questions this passage poses are not ignored, that would be a big miss. Since I started this study several days after the official start my question is – does Paul’s words about women and childbearing come back up in an upcoming devotional? If not, I may try to look up resources and post here
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Our marriage bible study pastor is explained it perfectly. The Lord designed all of creation with divine order. Men and women each have their roles and it’s a GIFT. We should see our roles as what they are, gifts from God, instead of oppressive like the world says they are. The enemy wants us to hate our roles. I’m working on loving mine and I hope all women who follow Christ are too(: it’s such a blessing when we walk in obedience in these roles rather than tiring and frustrating when we fight it. I’ve been on both sides
Our marriage bible study pastor is explained it perfectly. The Lord designed all of creation with divine order. Husbands but it’s a GIFT. We should see our roles as what they are, gifts from God, instead of oppressive like the world says they are. The enemy wants us to hate our roles. I’m working on loving mine
Bible Hub and enduring word!
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Thank you Jesus for everything
I also think that if men and women act as they are both instructed in this passage then it wouldn’t feel as threatening to women as it comes across because we wouldn’t be seeking power over other but to love others as God loved us.
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Amen. I am so grateful for a community of women that believe in Jesus and press in together.
@Anna Hicks…thank you
Thank you Jesus
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A good word from John Piper on v15 – very clarifying and I highly recommend!
https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/how-are-women-saved-through-childbearing
100%!
@Courtney
I understand what you’re saying, I do, but we have to also understand that realistically, God placed our husbands and fathers in a headship role over us. There are more than a few verses that speak on that. That doesn’t mean we are inferior or subordinate. It means that their God given role is to lead us to Christ. The best way to show it is by taking a pair of your husbands shoes and trying to walk around in them. More than likely, his shoes will be significantly bigger, therefore a little clunky. Hard to walk in, possibly causing you to stumble. The same process is applied to our lives when we are serving God. God gave men a certain role and He gave women a certain role. One is not greater than the other, it’s just different. We, as women, will stumble when we try to take on a Godly man’s role, and the men will do the same when they try to take on a Godly woman’s role. We each have our own paths to walk.
Hey! I think theologians still have many theory’s and don’t completely agree as to what Paul means here, but someone once explained to me that it comes back to the ‘seed’ of Eve, in that through child bearing Jesus (a descendant of Adam), is the saviour of the world. Not sure if this helps or if it’s more confusing, happy to also be wrong, but thought I’d share it anyways!
I also have several medical conditions that affect my ability to have children. I hold hope in that this passage does NOT mean salvation comes from giving birth, that would be contradictory to the rest of Gods word (including this passage in verses 5-6) which says Jesus alone is the only way to Father, he alone is our salvation, giving birth is NOT.
Praying for you this morning sister Xx
Hey! I think theologians still have many theory’s and don’t completely agree as to what Paul means here, but someone once explained to me that it comes back to the ‘seed’ of Eve, in that through child bearing Jesus (a descendant of Adam), is the saviour of the world. Not sure if this helps or if it’s more confusing, happy to also be wrong, but thought I’d share it anyways!
I also have several medical conditions that affect my ability to have children. I hold hope in that this passage does NOT mean salvation comes from giving birth, that would be contradictory to the rest of Gods word (including this passage in verses 5-6) which says Jesus alone is the only way to Father, he alone is our salvation, giving birth is NOT.
Hey! I think theologians still have many theory’s and don’t completely agree as to what Paul means here, but someone once explained to me that it comes back to the ‘seed’ of Eve, in that through child bearing Jesus (a descendant of Adam), is the saviour of the world. Not sure if this helps or if it’s more confusing, happy to also be wrong, but thought I’d share it anyways!
@JessicaTimperio hello! I had the same questions and did a lot of studying and this is what stood out – at time time of Paul’s letter to Timothy, there was a rumor that when women had sex they lost their salvation. In order to bear children they needed to have sex… thus the rumor took hold. Paul is simply telling Timothy to proclaim that salvation remains after women have sex, it is irreversible and true.
I did some digging and found this online. Maybe this will help!
The way I construe the logic of 1 Timothy 2:12–15Open in Logos Bible Software (if available) is as follows. In verse 12, Paul sets boundaries for women in the church. In verses 13–14, Paul gives two reasons for this: (1) creation order: the man was created first, then the woman (v. 13); (2) the scenario at the Fall: rather than God-man-woman-Satan, a complete reversal had taken place: Satan-woman-man-God. In v. 15, Paul addresses the question, “How can women today avoid the mistake made by Eve?” The answer: by adhering to their God-given boundaries and tending to their God-given responsibilities.
I did some digging and found this online. Maybe this will help!
@Amy Bush That makes a lot more sense now, thank you so much!! I tried looking it up but I got so many different interpretations that it was just super confusing lol
The only thing I’m having difficulty understanding is the childbearing part. I am a woman who, due to medical issues, cannot and should not bear children. What does this mean for me, a woman who wants to follow and obey His Word? I’m a bit confused and upset about this. Could someone please explain, if you don’t mind?
Yes I agree! You are right this was talked about in a recent SRT podcast. I remembered the recent guest mentioning this.
Yes thank you for sharing. This helps make this passage easier for me to wrap my head around!
Yes ma’am!!! I couldn’t agree with you more!!!! A Mother’s influence is so so important!
Wow, wow. The beauty of prayer and intercession.
Good, wise words.
In my study Bible it notes that Paul doesn’t believe that people can be saved in the sense of earning justification through childbearing or any other means. But the New Testament can also use the green term “saved” in the sense of progressively coming to experience all the aspects of salvation. In that sense, salvation is ongoing. A similar view is that “saved” can be understood as referring especially to the endurance and perseverance and faith that is necessary for eternal salvation. People are saved as they persevere or continue in the faith to carry out the lords calling in their life, one example being the unique role of women in childbearing
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Sky, I am praying for your uncle, you, and your family! I have seen addiction up close and personal with someone I deeply care about. I pray the he chooses God’s Word to give him strength, even in his most dark and trying times. God is greater and far more powerful than any drug!! I pray that God fills him with His Holy Spirit, so that he can have peace and comfort beyond all understanding, and I rebuke the enemy’s hold on him in Jesus’ name! Thanking God on your behalf, that you were able to get back on the right track, and I’m praying that, through Him, you remain strong! You are right, He will NEVER leave us nor forsake us! GOD IS GOOD…ALL THE TIME! ❤️❤️
I’m so sorry to hear about your uncle. I had an aunt that passed away from addiction. So hard, but you’re right. God is greater. Will pray right now. ❤️
I loved this as well. ❤️
This hit me deep. I am so quick to point a fault or flaw in a person instead of praying for them. Conviction hurts so good!
Because mothers have a unique bond and intimacy with their children, and spend far more time with them than do fathers, they have far greater influence in their lives and thus a unique responsibility and opportunity for rearing godly children. While a woman may have led the human race into sin, women have the privilege of leading many out of sin to godliness. This is the best thing I have found about the child bearing. This chapter is so hard to decipher, thank you To the many resources we have!
I can’t remember who said this, but I feel I heard this on a SRT podcast. They had a guest who was discussing this passage in 1 Timothy 2. Or it could have been the controversial topic in Corinthians. Either way, she said that during the time Paul wrote this, women were completely discouraged and could even be punished for learning. Isn’t that crazy? So if you think about it, Paul was very inclusive. He wanted women to learn, but to do so safely. So he encouraged women not to try standing out (with flashy clothes and jewelry) and to learn in silence. That way they could be safe AND educated in the ways of the Lord. This perspective really helped me get through these two tough passages. I love getting the cultural context behind each book of the Bible. I hope this helps someone who is struggling with this too!
Thank you for this insight!
Thank you so much for this! I definitely want to look into this more because this is a hard verse to read for me. Learning more context around some of these verses is always so helpful.
“My deliverance and my glory depend on God, he is my mighty rock and my refuge”
I give all glory to You God, past and present. Can you, my dear sisters, please pray for my uncle? He has a major Heroin addiction. My cousins say he’s really in bad shape. Addiction runs in my family. I must admit, I have had my fair share of problems too. There’s a couple times my mom suspected me of abusing some medications I am on. But I am better now. She was able to monitor me a little more and able to put me on the right track again. I just hope and pray that my uncle can find the proper help he needs. I hope that my family and I can seek God’s presence first… and that all of our bad habits will be no more.
I hope that all of us know that God does NOT forsake those who have left the path He has for them. He will bring them back! HE IS GREATER!
I also have difficulty with these scripture, and are pretty controversial. Does anyone have any explanation on what Paul means in verse 15 about being saved through child-bearing?
This!!! 100% agree with every word you wrote. My role is to let him lead and to support and pray for him along the way.
Susie I agree
You know, this is twice in two days God has spoken to me about keeping quiet instead of leaping in to speak my opinion. I am the worst! Especially on social media which is why I had to delete the apps. My political views are the Right views, right???? Even my adult kids tell me “You can’t change their mind on Facebook, Mom”. You would think at my age I would have learned this by now (63), God just shakes His head, and brings me back to His Word..again. And I loved “Trust God to change hearts..” I have Scripture all over the walls of our house. So now, another one to add…Prov 17:27-28 The one who has knowledge restrains his words, and one who keeps a cool head is a person of understanding. Even a fool is considered wise when he keeps silent-discerning when he seals his lips.” Blessings to you sisters. ❤️
@Victoria E. So good to see you on here. Being a new mom is a big adjustment. Give yourself grace and just enjoy each moment. I say that as a GramsieSue because the days go by so quickly and before you know it, the children are grown…. So now I rock my grands, I take time to listen, I hug and cuddle and don’t worry about cleaning and laundry. It will get done eventually. Give that sweet boy a hug for me. ❤️ Praying for all you sisters. Blessings and hugs to all ❤️
Praying for those in authority over me, and especially those whose policies I do not support, gives me “a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.” Praying reminds me that all people bear the image of God. By lifting them up in prayer, asking God to reveal Himself to them and that they would make Him Lord of their life, gives me peace. I know I have done the best for them. I place them in God’s hands, however He would use them for His plans. I do not have to fret about the end results of my prayers because God is in control. His will be done, through whoever, whenever and however. He knows what He’s doing.
Thank you Jane, you have provided the conclusion and context I felt this devotion was missing. I am so grateful that my daughters have women like yourself and your daughter to provide example of Godly strength and leadership. Appreciate you!
I often have trouble with this passage, as well as other similars ones, because I feel it’s too easy to say “it was a different culture then, that’s why he said that..” and communicate that scriptures like these aren’t relevant or need to be paid attention to today. I feel that this is a slippery slope. If this passage can be essentially thrown out due to cultural norms, what other scriptures and passages will we allow to be done the same to? The Word is the Word, and that’s the solid ground. I constantly have to ask myself “Do I believe every single word written in these texts, or not?” I either believe it all, or nothing. I can’t cherry pick what scriptures/verses work for me, regardless of the huge changes in the times/cultures/societies/etc. I have to believe that God was extremely intentional on what He chose to be placed in the Bible, that He knew we would be clinging to these words for thousands and thousands of years. I have to choose to believe that these words were and are still accurate, even if I’m misunderstanding them, myself.
However, as a woman, I feel I have a lot of teaching to offer. Whether it be just with my immediate family, or close friends, or beyond that. And I also know I’ve learned SO MUCH throughout my Christian life from other women, most of whom hold authority positions within the church. And the thought of negating that hurts my heart and conjures up a lot of doubts for me.
I have no solution or advice or perspective shift to give here, just wanted to be transparent in how/why I am currently still struggling with these passages and my thought process surrounding this. I’m continuing to pray that the Holy Spirit would interpret this passage for me in the way the Lord intends it, regardless of if it’s what I want to hear, or not.
I often have trouble with this passage, as well as other similars ones, because I feel it’s too easy to say “it was a different culture then, that’s why he said that..” and communicate that scriptures like these aren’t relevant or need to be paid attention to today. I feel that this is a slippery slope. If this passage can be essentially thrown out due to cultural norms, what other scriptures and passages will we allow to be done the same to? The Word is the Word, and that’s the solid ground. I constantly have to ask myself “Do I believe every single word written in these texts, or not?” I either believe it all, or nothing. I can’t cherry pick what scriptures/verses work for me, regardless of the huge changes in the times/cultures/societies/etc. I have to believe that God was extremely intentional on what He chose to be placed in the Bible, that He knew we would be clinging to these words for thousands and thousands of years. I have to choose to believe that these words were and are still accurate, even if I’m misunderstanding them, myself.
However, as a woman, I feel I have a lot of teaching to offer. Whether it be just with my immediate family, or close friends, or beyond that. And I also know I’ve learned SO MUCH throughout my Christian life from other women, most of whom hold authority positions within the church. And the thought of negating that hurts my heart and conjures up a lot of doubts for me.
I have no solution or advice or perspective shift to give here, just wanted to be transparent in how/why I am currently still struggling with these passages and my thought process surrounding this. I,
I often have trouble with this passage, as well as other similars ones, because I feel it’s too easy to say “it was a different culture then, that’s why he said that..” and communicate that scriptures like these aren’t relevant or need to be paid attention to today. I feel that this is a slippery slope. If this passage can be essentially thrown out due to cultural norms, what other scriptures and passages will we allow to be done the same to? The Word is the Word, and that’s the solid ground. I constantly have to ask myself “Do I believe every single word written in these texts, or not?” I either believe it all, or nothing. I can’t cherry pick what scriptures/verses work for me, regardless of the huge changes in the times/cultures/societies/etc. I have to believe that God was extremely intentional on what He chose to be placed in the Bible, that He knew we would be clinging to these words for thousands and thousands of years. I have to choose to believe that these words were and are still accurate, even if I’m misunderstanding them, myself.
However, as a woman, I feel I have a lot of teaching to offer. Whether it be just with my immediate family, or close friends, or beyond that. And I also know I’ve learned SO MUCH throughout my Christian life from other women, most of whom hold authority positions within the church. And the thought of negating that hurts my heart and conjures up a lot of doubts for me.
I often have trouble with this passage, as well as other similars ones, because I feel it’s too easy to say “it was a different culture then, that’s why he said that..” and communicate that scriptures like these aren’t relevant or need to be paid attention to today. I feel that this is a slippery slope. If this passage can be essentially thrown out due to cultural norms, what other scriptures and passages will we allow to be done the same to? The Word is the Word, and that’s the solid ground. I constantly have to ask myself “Do I believe every single word written in these texts, or not?” I either believe it all, or nothing. I can’t cherry pick what scriptures/verses work for me, regardless of the huge changes in the times/cultures/societies/etc. I have to believe that God was extremely intentional on what He chose to be placed in the Bible, that He knew we would be clinging to these words for thousands and thousands of years. I have to choose to believe that these words were and are still accurate, even if I’m misunderstanding them, myself.
Thank you Lehua for posting Heidi’s comment from a year ago. How powerful. Thank God for the technology.
Reading today’s scriptures I am so reminded to pray for leaders. The war of Ukraine and Russia came to mind and it has been such a pressing issue in my heart. Ongoing war for almost 3 months and i wonder when this will cease. Just like Covid when will this cease? God knows. Praying for ALL is not easy as it engages you in warfare. When you list the inventories in your head of pain, hurt, limitations, it weighs heavy and heavier. But GOD said pray. Stay awake with me another hour and pray. Can you stay up with Me? Spirit is willing but flesh is weak. Praying for all, for wicked leaders, who are clearly recruited by the dark side, and because of that, don’t they need our prayers even more to be transferred to the Kingdom of Light? Isn’t God’s will is for none to perish but come to the knowledge of truth? Pray pray for all, even your enemies. Even if it stirs up your anger and hurts. This takes a lot. But when we put ourselves together to push through the long list of inventories of heaviness, it’s like spiritual weight lifting. 20 lbs today. 30 lbs tomorrow. 50 lbs next week (maybe ny His grace), you can bear more and more. The heartbreaks no longer seem heavy. Prayer is exercise and discipline to me. That’s how I see it because it hurts like the gym. But we aim for consistency here, keep it up daily. Exercise your spiritual muscles. Glory to our wonderful sympathetic High Priest, the ONE True Living God, who was tempted at all points in the flesh, to help us through our fleshly temptations now. Be disciplined and consistent, and pray your way through! Be blessed dear beautiful sisters.
PAMC – So happy to hear your doctor’s visit went well! Rejoicing with you and praying that the new medication plan works. Keep us posted!
For the past few years, I’ve been keeping a digital journal with notes from SRT studies, including comments from y’all that have inspired and encouraged me. And every day the app reminds me of entries I’ve made “On This Day.” I hope this is okay… I wanted to share a comment from Heidi about a year ago that really encouraged my heart then (and today!) in the hopes that it’ll inspire and encourage others who are going through a valley:
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“Praying God’s peace to comfort your heart and your mind in Christ… praying His comfort to allow you space to go to Him in honesty and recognition of how big He is and how in love with you He is. We’re talking about the God who had to watch His own child be tortured and murdered and had to restrain Himself from stepping in and stopping the whole thing. He knows pain. He knows hurt. He knows disloyalty. He knows abuse. And He knows you. He created you. He is concerned with you. Be at His feet and rest in His power to use all things for good. You are so so so loved, dear sister.. Cry with Him- He cries with you too…
I too can testify to the absolute fact and truth that when we take our suffering and trials and surrender them to our Savior, He will 100% restore, establish, strengthen, and support us. It’s a fact. It’s HARD. When something so dark and so wrong happens, we hold onto it like some kind of badge over us. But He in His divine wisdom knew that to hold onto it and allow it to create a new definition of who we are, will only give that pain power to happen to us every single day, over and over. It makes us dead in our witness and useless to His power in us. It gives the enemy the victory. Praise God!!! He knows the afflictions will come AND HE HAS A RESCUE AND RESTORE PLAN ALREADY IN PLACE and please I beg of you ladies- please believe those of us testifying to this fact- He really does it. He turns ashes to true, honest beauty. He takes the hurt and refuses to allow it to be in vain. He gives it purpose and gives you freedom. It’s all so unreal… Hope in Him. In HIM, not the outcome of the situation.
He WILL. NOT. DISAPPOINT.”
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Thank you Heidi and many others who have inspired and encouraged me on my darkest days. Know that your words and actions matter.
Amen, Jane K!
Thank you to everyone who prayed for my doctor visit. It went well in a lot of respects. My doctor took me off the meteformin that has been causing me problems, is re-working some other meds as well…referring me to a different gastrointestinal doctor…I’m so grateful y’all. Thanks again. And I’ll boldly ask for your prayers that the new medication plans work.
So good to hear from you Victoria E! GramsieSue praising God! Sharon Jersey Girl you spoke my heart…pray, pray, & pray some more & guard my tongue!
Love & hugs & blessings to all.
@jane K – you’re completely missing the point. this is not a forum to tear down the writer nor is it a place to shout your daughter’s accomplishments from the rooftop or promote your agenda. please troll somewhere else.
Lore – this is excellent. thank you for reminding us to stay on our knees and be humble. God has been convicting me about my prayer life — especially in trusting “God to change stories AND hearts.” This hit home on so many things! Thank you for being obedient!
Thank you Lore for this devotional, and to the ladies offering perspective of seeing the greater picture, while also looking at the specific context in which this letter was written. I also took a look at the Bible Project video and the He Reads Truth devo which also helped. I may have to re-listen to the podcast as well, but I remember there was something shared about unity there. Referencing the Armor of God study, where we are reminded “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12). May we remember that there is a spiritual battle going on and may we continue to stay unified and not let details divide us as believers, for unity is what God wants, and division is what the enemy wants. (It’s interesting that the Armor of God verses in Ephesians are for the people of Ephesus, and Paul is sending Timothy to help the people of Ephesus. Neat to see the connection.)
Have a blessed Wednesday ladies.
Oh I was so nervous about this passage. This is my first time in a while leading a small group through an SRT study. There are some strong personalities in our group that I foresee bristling at these verses. BUT this devo was on point! Not only as a heart check for myself but also as a reminder to pray for the women I’m leading.
I like where Lore started the devotion today, pointing us all to pray and live quiet lives full of godliness, BUT she dropped the ball here when she chose to not address this further. First, Paul didn’t say that God forbid women to instruct men and if we look at several verses in the Bible we read that Eve was deceived but death came through Adam Romans 5:12, 15, 17-19. Also several women in the Bible held leadership roles. One of my favorites is Deborah. A prophetess, judge, and military leader. My daughter is an assistant pastor at our church. She is being obedient to the call God has for her. I want our daughters, and granddaughters to know God never made them less than or above men but we were all made in the image of Christ.
God comes first …….. when I place Him above any person I have clarity, peace, grace, discernment and humility. Praying that He guides me through each day. His plan is perfect.
God comes first …….. when I place Him above any person I have clarity, peace, grace, discernment and service.
All I can say is mercy. The weight of this entire devotional is solid, heavy, authentic. It’s not a light or easy way to think of things. No, instead it reframes our thinking. Our mindset as Christians have to change. We stand out. We are different. We fight against our own mindset first, and then the rewiring happens. Start in the beginning. Hope first, forgive first, petition with thanksgiving.
I was at first a little annoyed at what Paul had written until I read my study Bible and they explained it that Paul was mainly referring to the Ephesian women. He felt because they were new converts that they shouldn’t be teaching. It goes on to point out that Paul had women that he did encourage in other churches, Priscilla, Phoebe, Mary, Euodia and several others. I believe you should only talk about what you are knowledgeable when it comes to Scripture and the Christianity. If you don’t understand it tell the people that and either listen or bow out.
Sisters be blessed and continue to study God’s Word.
Oh I LOVE what you wrote Molly R! I am a strong personality, and want to control everything around me including my marriage! I have been working on what you said, for I learned it to be true years ago, but still struggle with not critizing or deamianing my husband! He truly is an amazing man, and everything runs smoother when I let him be our leader! Christ first, then my husband, and in turn, he respects me and loves me more than I can imagine!
Traci G- My thoughts on fashion is it is fun and great, as long as it doesn’t become our measure of self-worth or a idol. I had a serious shopping problem, basically self-medicating to make myself feel better, a lift! Now I stay away from stores as much as possible and put my time (and money) to help fortify God’s kingdom, it has helped me grow. But I still love “stuff” and have to guard myself from falling back into my old routine. Same with makeup, some love it, but I have not worn hardly any in a few years, and I find it refreshing! As long as you put it in the right perspective and don’t do it to appease others, looking and feeling good isn’t bad in my opionion. ( Again though, we can look at how Instagram and selfies can lead to horrible comparison for our young girls and develop the wrong priorities??!).
The podcast was really good this week! And I am loving the study of Timothy!
I am So Ecstatic for you GramsieSue!!! Wow, what a joy for that miracle! Continued prayers that the cancer stays away from our Brother Steve!
What first stood out to me was vs.2 “so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.” To rest in God alone. To pray for all.
What threw me for a loop was dressing modestly, hairstyle, expensive clothes, etc. I’m a fashion girl!! Am I wrong for this? I just like it. It is not to impress others and does not come from a prideful place. Any thoughts ladies?
I actually love this passage (especially with Titus 2) as it clarifies for me my role, especially in my home. It’s a weight off my shoulders knowing it is not my job, even when I think my husband isn’t “doing enough.” It’s a lesson that is continually needed, and I have seen God do incredible things in my heart and my marriage as I have laid down my Eve-like pride and stepped in where I feel action was needed. I was nagging and ultimately disrespecting him. I refused to listen to God when He asked me to trust Him, and my husband. I need to help him by praying for him, not stepping into his role, encouraging him, not criticizing where I thought I saw too much inaction or aloofness. And I need to teach my children it is a high honor, and high responsibility to be a leader of any kind – leaders need prayer, not criticism. Encouragement, not undermining. As a homeschool mom I do plenty of “teaching.” It’s always a joy to see my husband affirm my teaching role with them, and also teaching us things as a family. When I step aside I am always reminded that he teaches with wisdom and patience. He is a much better teacher than I am! And no, I am not a meek, walked-over woman. I am actually stronger and a better ME when I help him be a better HIM.
@Rachel. Yes! I totally agree with your comments. What a beautiful devotional. I loved Lore’s perspective on this difficult passage. Do we pray, intercede and give thanks for people before we debate with them?
You can say “it was a different time then” or “he was talking to a different culture” but in no culture should a man have authority over a woman based on his gender. That’s disgusting and it’s worth noting these words were penned by a man. I think this devotional is a cop out for addressing the hard truths.
@Claire B Me too! That ‘I’ was something I’ve never noticed before. I still need to listen to the podcast and watch the Bible Project video for 1 Timothy…hoping for more clarification.
God desires that all be saved! It is God who changes hearts and minds and stories, not us. We can pray for them and intercede on their behalf to the God of our universe.
Grammie Sue, praise God for this wonderful news. SO happy to hear this; as a fellow cancer survior I know those are some of the best words to hear! Thank you God for your healing power and taking care of Steve!
Sorry Claire, that should say the new Christians were having trouble deciphering false doctrines. :)
Hi Claire,
Paul says “I” because he is the one writing the letter. The study portion of my Bible states that Paul was not against women; his instructions were for the people at Ephesus who weren’t Christians having a problem with false prophecies. These verses used to make my blood boil a little bit as well… Lol… But as I started to study about the culture of the people to whom he was writing, I understood.
Hope this helps!!!
ARINA (and all those left with a feeling of being “less than”) my heart tugged at your words. Isn’t it so precious that throughout scripture, we only see God/Jesus elevating/protecting/caring for women? It is men acting out of their sin and flesh that do the degrading. We are equal in value, different in function, and no less treasured in God’s sight. You are more beloved than you can even imagine.
Hot topic…”I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet. – 1 Timothy 2:12”. So my first thought is Paul says “I” he does not say God does not, he says I. Not starting a revolution here just wondering about other opinions on Paul’s instructions to Timothy. I never had that little “I” jump out at me before today.
Thank you Lore Ferguson Wilbert for a thoughtful devotional today.
Such a good reminder today, to pray for everyone – every where. These words were a bit convicting to me this morning… “Are we primarily people of quietness, trusting that it is God who changes hearts and minds and stories—not us?” Far to often I (subconsciously) think that it is I who can change peoples hearts, minds and stories. Today I am reminded to first of all – pray! second of all – pray, third of all pray! I need to do much more praying than I do talking and let the Holy Spirit do the work in hearts and minds – not me. If I would just learn to consistently pray, before opening my mouth – much heartache would be spared and I’d have far less incidences of needing to say I’m sorry! Thank you Lore for the reminder.
Praying for all your requests as I read them and praising God with you @grammiesue for your husbands good report!!
Wishing everyone a blessed Wednesday!
Same. I pray for their leaders’ hearts to be transformed in Jesus name
This Bible Study in 1&2 Timothy began at a great time in my life. It’s been a blessing to me. God is faithful and he is my rock. Thank you Lord for strength.
GramsieSue ecstatically happy for your good news! Thanks for sharing it with us!!
“Are we primarily people of quietness, trusting that it is God who changes hearts and minds and stories—not us? ”
Amen
Thinking of those in the Ukraine and Russia today. Oh how I pray that will experience a “tranquil and quiet life” soon.
I have a video meeting later today that could be difficult. This morning’s readings were exactly what I needed to hear. I’m keeping my study book close throughout the meeting as a reminder. God’s timing is always perfect!
GRAMSIESUE – praising the Lord through happy tears for your awesome, amazing news of Steve!
Praying through each sister’s requests, new moms & sahm (good to see you VICTORIA E), family members that have strayed, anxiety and so many more needs. Missing ERB, TINA, LYNNE FROM AL, FOSTER MAMA and others.
“Are we primarily people of quietness, trusting that it is God who changes hearts and minds and stories—not us?”
I love when the word hits home to exactly what we need to hear. I needed to hear this! It’s not me it’s God. I’m just the vessel
Wow, how relevant is this devotional to the political climate of the US, right now. It is good to pray for our leadership, in whatever country we are situated in.
I am thankful for the active gifts God has given us– specifically mentioned, prayer and prophecy. May we be people who are slow to speak, quick to listen, and slow to anger. (James 1:19) This verse popped into my head as I read about living a quiet and peaceable life.
God bless you, Shes. Stay near to Him!
A good reminder today to pray without ceasing, to pray for everyone (even the ones who are hard to pray for). He Reads Truth also has a good devotion about leading a quiet and peaceful life. I wrote down Psalm 62:8 in my journal as I feel I’m in a season of deepening my dependence & trust in God to show me what His will for my life is over what I want for my life. I hope everyone has a blessed day <3
With all the craziness around us it was good to be reminded to pray for those in authority.
Important to remember Paul was speaking to a specific audience at a specific time: the newly-formed church at Ephesus in ~65 AD.
I agree that cultural context is key to understanding what society was going through at the time Paul penned these words. As I read today, I’ll think about the “all”. As my teaching pastor once said, if it’s not “good news of great joy for all people,” then we’re focusing on the wrong part of the message.
I also watched the Bible project video on 1 Timothy and would encourage everyone to do so. It gave me a lot of clarity around the interpretation of these passages which for modern day Christians are difficult to read and confusing.
I agree that it is difficult to read this polarizing passage. I want to defend the word of God and defend the role of women. Paul is trying to speak to his audience and I am eager to know more about how we can speak to our current culture with putting our faith in God first.
“It gives dignity to all people everywhere when we pray for them, thank God for them, and intercede on their behalf.” And I would add praying for others brings us inline with God’s heart.
Paul’s instruction for women reminds me of Mary (the mother of Jesus) who pondered all the things about Jesus in her heart and of Mary (the sister of Lazarus) who was at Jesus’ feet learning (and worshipping). These women who Jesus honored are our role models.
Don’t let Satan turn our “modern” sensibilities into a way of stealing what God has for us in this passage.
GRAMSIESUE – (happy dance) so thrilled that God has blessed your husband with healing. May Steve be a bold witness for the goodness of God.
Continued prayers for the Ukrainian people.
I really appreciate the response today. I watched the Bible Project on 1 Timothy and it helped give more perspective on the potential interpretations of this passage. I am focusing on the “all” part at the beginning too
I really appreciate the response today. I watched the Bible Project on 1 Timothy and it helped give more perspective on the potential interpretations of this passage.
Rebecca that is a great way to look at it! Thank you
Thank you Lore, thank you for sharing the beautiful thoughts that God gave you through wisdom. God bless you and continue to do so.
I always struggle with passages like this. I so easily start feeling inferior, like I’m worth less than men, when I’m reading this. But today I’m clinging to Psalm 62:8 “Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts before him.” God knows what I feel and I can trust Him that He doesn’t mean harm or hurt with this part of His Word, whatever the correct interpretation may be.
First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, 2 for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godlinessax and dignity.3 This is good, and it pleases God our Savior,4 who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all,a testimony at the proper time.
With the National Day of Prayer coming and all that is going on with Roe vs Wade, this Scripture is a timely reminder to pray for our government leaders and those in authority. I’ve extended this to include those that have a platform or influence.(Of course, we should be praying for them regularly.) May those that aren’t following and think they don’t need God, or don’t think they are depraved or that their sins aren’t so bad, be drawn to see God rightly and themselves rightly. May they be drawn to repentance and be astounded of the gift of forgiveness and be saved. May they care more about what God thinks than people. May our laws and statutes change to be pleasing to God. May those that are in authority or have a platform of influence use that for Your glory! Amen!
Also, every time I read Hebrews 4:14-16, I think of a message by Dr. Charles Stanley. He reminded the congregation that they can only approach God because of Jesus. He said that we can come boldly but to remember to come reverently. God is Holy. He encouraged them to get on their knees and pray that Scripture. He told them the reason to get on their knees is simply because of Who He is. He said that you can pray anywhere, but He encouraged them to bow before Him and that this could transform their prayer life. (I’m paraphrasing a bit.) Here is a link if anyone wants to listen: https://youtu.be/PlgFpXJXW38
Prayers for you all.