Hold to God

It's one thing to leave false gods to follow the one true God.  Its another step of faith to hold on to God even when things get difficult.  Job showed us that it can be done.  So did Jesus.

They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. (1 Timothy 3:9 NIV)

We've already discussed what gives us a clear conscience in the "bad box" series.  Our conscience is clear when we hold on to and act upon good thoughts and throw away bad thoughts that come into our minds.  We train "Will" to do this.

They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. (1 Timothy 3:10 NIV)

The word "deacon" is simply a transliteration of the Greek letters into English.  A better translation of the Greek word would be "table waiter."  Deacons, then, are table waiters serving others.  This matches Jesus' discussion on leadership when he said, "Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all." (Mark 9:35 NIV)  The more we hold on to God, the more our serving God becomes obvious in our serving of people.  God designed us to serve.

Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus. (1 Timothy 3:13 NIV)

How about you?  Do you hold on to the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience?  Has your faith translate into service to God?  Is your faith becoming obvious in your God-led service to others?