Awake & Alive: 1 Timothy Reading Plan
Day 16
9The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. 10For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. 1 Timothy 4:9-10
Building on the athletic metaphor from verse 8, Paul issues a call that’s both encouraging and challenging. The emphasis on “toil and strive” underscores the demanding nature of the Christian life. Faithful believers must dedicate all their energy and focus to developing and defending sound doctrine. The Christian life is anything but passive or easy – that’s the challenge presented in this passage.
Encouragement comes from the reference to “hope in the living God.” This goes beyond mere trust, though trust is certainly included. This hope is the fuel that propels believers in their race. It aligns with Pauline doctrine, which emphasizes Christ and his work as the foundation of Christian faith, rather than focusing on believers’ good works. The call is to live out the faith zealously, constantly drawing strength from reminders of all that Christ has accomplished.