The Verse I Pray Over My Son

1 Timothy isn't a huge book of the bible but it's a quick, lifegiving read. It's a letter from Paul to Timothy and gives very practical advice on how to live a life according to God and His word.

We chose 1 Timothy 6:11 as a life verse for our son before he was born. I don't remember how we chose it other than I was reading 1 Timothy and thought this verse was not just applicable to Timothy but to all believers. It tells us plainly how God wants us to live. 

"But you, man of God, flee from all this and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness"

Prior verses talk about what we should flee from but I think the focus is what God calls us to pursue.

Righteousness - being free from sin or guilt

Godliness - being devoutly religious

Faith - "being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (Hebrews 11:1)

Love - Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13)

Endurance - "More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope" (Romans 5:3-4)

Gentleness - “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger” (Proverbs 15:1)

What are some practical ways we can apply the above to our lives? How can we ensure we're living a righteous and godly life? Acting in faith and love? Enduring through hard times and acting with gentleness and kindness? I think Psalm 51:10 tells us, "create in me a pure heart, Oh God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me." 

Often I need a good check. Maybe through self-reflection or a trustworthy friend. We can't change without knowing what we need to change. 

I encourage you to self-reflect. Sit and think how you can apply these characteristics to your life or take time to thank God for the opportunities he's provided that have allowed you to demonstrate these things to others.