[13] “Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.” – 1 Timothy 4:13 (NIV)
Paul was Timothy’s spiritual father in the faith. So, he was in charge of mentoring him and others who also worked with him (Paul). By the time Paul was writing his epistles to Timothy, he was already old and nearing death. So, most of the things he said were like a father speaking to a son.
Paul was in prison when writing his epistle to Timothy. And since he didn’t know when he would be released, he told him (Timothy) to devote himself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. In those days, these were the fundamental duties of preachers. Today, the second and third duties are still in force, but the first has taken a little turn. Why? Because back then, people were not having Bibles in their homes. Anytime they gathered for church was a time to hear the public reading of the scripture from the man of God. Nowadays, the Bible is easily available to everyone, and many people are not even reading it anymore. What a tragedy!
It is good to read your Bible. But scripture was primarily written to be heard and not just read. Hearing scripture is beneficial for your spiritual growth. While it is laborious to sit to read and study scripture, hearing it for yourself, especially through audio Bibles, throughout your day can nourish your spirit so much. Keep studying the Word. But study to encounter God, not to just know it.
You’re a blessing.
Prayer:
Father, help me cultivate the habit of hearing scripture consistently for my spirit to be nourished every time. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2024 – 329
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