Yesterday, we read of Paul’s guidance to Timothy on being faithful. Today’s devotion comes from Paul’s heart regarding wisdom. Once again, I think of my grandmother who had a limited education but was wise in the Word of the Lord. She gave me so many life lessons that I still recall. Many of us self-destruct because we don’t listen to those who have traveled this way before us. I have an opportunity now to share her words of wisdom with my own children and grandchildren, keeping them from making the mistakes that I made. In 1 Timothy 4:16, we find these words:

“Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.”

Those new to the ministry require direction to grow and develop into all that God would have them to be. Chapter 4 provides words of instruction. Chapter 5, verse 1 says, “Never speak harshly to an older man, but appeal to him respectfully as you would to your own father. Talk to younger men as you would to your own brothers.” Wow! Sometimes when I write these devotions, I am overwhelmed with these words of wisdom. In traveling to Kenya to see our adopted children, I became aware of how the Kenyans respect the elderly for their wisdom and knowledge. I pray today that we will learn to respect and listen to those who share words of wisdom and knowledge with us.