Tuesday, July 5, 2022

“A Charge to Keep I Have

I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;

That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:

1 Timothy 6:13-14

If you are unfamiliar with this one, I get it. It is not sung as much now as it was in the past. The verses are as follows:

A charge to keep I have, A God to glorify, A never-dying soul to save, And fit it for the sky.

To serve the present age, My calling to fulfill: Oh, may it all my pow’rs engage To do my Master’s will!

Arm me with jealous care, As in Thy sight to live; And O Thy servant, Lord, prepare A strict account to give!

Help me to watch and pray, And on Thyself rely, Assured, if I my trust betray, I shall forever die.

I’ve included these words because this hymn is powerful. Its words remind us of the seriousness of this life and our walk with Christ.

In this passage of scripture noted above, Paul reminds Timothy of the seriousness of His walk with God. He outlines what is important and admonishes him to fight this fight of faith. Paul ultimately charges him to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness. We are to fight the good fight of faith, and understand the seriousness of this walk before our God.

PRAYER: Lord, I admit that sometimes I have been flippant about this walk – not taking it as seriously as I should. Thank you for reminding me of this hymn and this scripture. This is a serious matter. Help me to watch and pray and rely on You in all things. In the name of Jesus. Amen.