Paul wrote to Timothy, "My son,
Stick to the work you have begun.
To silence senseless teachers who
Do not build faith but misconstrue
The law, not for the righteous, but
The wayward who don't know what's what.
I once did evil, awful things,
But given grace by King of Kings.
You can accept this word is true:
If he took me, then he'll take you.
So fight the good fight. Pray for all.
To teach the full truth is my call.
Lift up not anger, men, but prayer.
And women, prize good deeds, not hair.
It's great if someone wants to lead.
Make sure they have the traits they need.
They must be gentle, self-controlled,
Not drunkards or in love with gold.
Hospitable, not prone to strife.
A husband faithful to his wife.
A reputation unbesmirched.
One must lead well to lead the church.
But don't add rules to be obeyed.
For all is good that God has made.
To teach this way you will be wise.
Make godliness an exercise.
With God as your security,
A pattern be, of purity,
Of how to love and how to talk,
Believing true and how to walk.
So read aloud and persevere.
You'll save yourself and those who hear.
All Christians, treat as relatives.
To those in need, then, freely give.
But those who are by pleasure fed,
While living they're already dead.
Those closest to you, give relief.
To fail that's worse than unbelief.
Help widows to whom you are close
So church can help who needs it most.
Tose who the work of church direct
Deserve the utmost of respect.
Give honor, servants, all the same,
That none would slander God's good name.
Those who teach wrong are clueless, vain,
Cause conflicts and seek worldly gain.
Those wanting riches fall in traps
That lead to ruinous collapse.
The love of money is a root
That grows to evil as its fruit.
We came with nothing, thus depart.
Chase godliness, now that's what's smart.
The rich should do good deeds and share.
Trust God in heav'n, build treasure there.
Avoid the profane that is rife.
Take hold of your eternal life."
© 2024 Jotham McCauley TheBibleRhymes.com