The Real Deal
Today’s Verse:
When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also. ~2 Timothy 1:5
Iron pyrite is a mineral also known as “fool’s gold.” It looks like real gold, but, constitutionally, it is not. For someone who is not discerning, they can wind up buying the lie that iron pyrite is real gold. Paul referred to an outstanding virtue about Timothy. He said that Timothy possessed an unfeigned faith. Unfeigned means “not hypocritical” or “not fake.” Timothy had a faith that was real and genuine.
We see the characteristic.
First, unfeigned faith has a good conscience before God and man. A good conscience is transparent and has nothing double about it. Second, it is humble. It is not self-exalting or self-promoting. A humble soul lowers itself in the presence of God. Third, it is conscientious of being a good testimony to the saved and unsaved. Then, it is truthfully honest. There is no playacting in an unfeigned faith. There is no hidden agenda with an unfeigned faith. It is righteous, repentant, and real.
We see the conduct.
An unfeigned faith has its foundation in a consistent and consecrated walk with the Lord. It looks into the mirror of God’s Word and does not forget what manner of man it sees. It is a life that prays without ceasing and in the Holy Ghost. It seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom. It lives out an agape love, as depicted in 1 Corinthians 13. It lives and prays in faith. It has compassion towards the lost, making a difference. It makes a compelling difference in the lives of those who come under its influence. It is real! It is real in its purity. It is real in its people skills. It is real in its passion. It is real in its power. It is what a true walk in the Spirit demonstrates. It is the real deal.
We see the commendation.
Paul commends Timothy for his unfeigned faith. It was a faith that was passed down for three generations. It was a faith that was visible. It was a faith that was verifiable. There were credible witnesses who could testify of the unfeigned faith of Timothy. It was a faith that was veracious. It was a faith that was valuable. God places a high premium on an unfeigned faith. Without this, our impact in this world for Christ is impotent and useless.
We see the calling.
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” An unfeigned faith is the life God wants us to live. It is attainable through the power of Christ. We can love the unlovable. We can serve the incorrigible. We can do the impossible. We have a calling to be the real deal. Accept God’s calling and be real!
Have an authentic God Morning!
Bible Reading Schedule: Acts 4-6