September 09, 2026 | Be Connected
Fight the Good Fight
Scripture: 1 Timothy 6:11-16(NIV)
11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.13 In the sight of God, who gives life to everything, and of Christ Jesus, who while testifying before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you 14 to keep this command without spot or blame until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 which God will bring about in his own time—God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen.
Devotional
When I was leaving my last professional organization, a leader asked me a thought-provoking question: “Are you running from something or running to something?” That question still resonates with me when facing tough decisions. In 1 Timothy 6:11, Paul encourages Timothy to “run” toward righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness, qualities that please God. Conversely, Paul urges him to flee from false teaching, greed, and love of money or material wealth. As Christians, our goal isn’t just to escape sin, but to actively pursue righteousness and prioritize God's will by “fighting the good fight of faith.”
Living a life aligned with Jesus Christ means embodying the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. But what does this look like practically? How do these qualities manifest in our daily actions and interactions? Our lives should reflect these virtues, demonstrating to others the character of Christ.
For followers of Christ like Timothy, the call to “fight the good fight of faith” serves as motivation to stay committed, even when circumstances are difficult. It’s a reminder that faithfulness isn’t always easy; it requires effort, perseverance, and unwavering commitment. Importantly, this fight isn’t reserved for some future time; it’s a current, ongoing pursuit. We are called to live out the life God has given us here and now, fully engaged in His purpose.
In verse 14, Paul instructs Timothy to live with integrity and obedience, reflecting Christ’s character both personally and in ministry. Many of us are planners, wanting every detail spelled out and accounted for. I admit I am guilty of this. But God reminds us in verse 15 that His plan and the return of Christ will happen in His perfect timing. This truth reinforces that we must trust in God's sovereignty. Sometimes, we need to “let go and let God,” trusting His divine plan even when it’s beyond our understanding.
Finally, Paul celebrates God’s eternal glory and greatness, giving Him honor that endures forever. As Christians, how do we hold onto this truth and actively “fight the good fight of faith”? How are we taking up our cross daily? Our journey isn’t just about avoiding sin; it’s about actively pursuing righteousness, trusting God's perfect timing, and celebrating His eternal glory.
This calling challenges us to remain faithful in every moment, trusting that God’s plan is perfect and that our efforts in faith are part of His greater purpose.
