READY AND WILLING. 1st Timothy 6:18. Some of the believers at Ephesus must have been led astray by what those false teachers taught. It may be that they were deceived, but it is still common today for some people to look for an excuse to turn away from trusted teachers and preachers committed to "the faith." We must be careful to avoid those who know what is right and choose to walk away. We have personally experienced the grace of God we preach about in the Gospel message. Timothy was responsible for passing on the truth of this grace to others, and this letter was likely read to the assembly at Ephesus. It is wise for us to study and learn the lessons of 1st Timothy and apply them to our lives and work for God.
We have a lot to do that others won’t, can’t, or refuse to do. Being prepared and willing removes the “can’t” attitude that often accompanies the challenges we face. “I can’t” or “I can’t now” often come up even before we’re asked. When a need or obligation arises that someone else can’t fulfill, it becomes an obvious responsibility we can choose to take on. We look for reasons to hesitate—until we remember the charge, “Do good… be ready… be willing,” and then we set aside our plans to do this work for God.
I wonder how often I have missed the things God planned for me because I have been focusing only on what I see. These will serve my interests, not necessarily others’ needs, which I can meet if I am willing to do so for their sake and to be a faithful servant of the Lord. I hope that I do not repeat those mistakes. I know there are always things I can do that God entrusted to me, and in His grace, gave to me to demonstrate to others. It’s not just money that many people might need; more often, they desire something intangible like time, caring concern, a listening ear, and perhaps some wise advice.
The orphans and widows may seek a listening ear because they no longer feel certain that anyone is aware of their existence. They once lived in the background of someone considered important, and now they find themselves without a place to belong. Sharing their loss and burdens requires time, gentleness, compassion, and empathy. Young Christians often look for something meaningful they can be involved in. They need reassurance that there is a place for them in the community of believers and that they can make a difference in the lives of God’s people. Sometimes, financial difficulties arise for some; I can show Christian love by helping to meet certain financial needs for them, for Jesus’ sake. Elderly individuals may simply want someone to stop and genuinely listen to what they have to say, to hear their stories, and to value the wisdom that comes with their experience. The simple act of listening to them can bring tears to their eyes.
There is much to see if I stop and look. The Lord, in love, met my needs when He, in grace, veiled His glory and came to earth so that He might meet my needs. He provided for all mankind the greatest need we all have – His salvation. We can find this because He was ready and willing to satisfy every claim against us with the riches of His grace. He drew near to us in our need and, for our sakes, gave His life on our behalf so that He would bear our sins. So why shouldn’t I be willing to give up what I have and be ready at a moment’s notice to do what I can so that others can be saved?