Be Sober-Minded

Theme of the Week: Mission Possible

Bible Verse: “As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5 ESV

Scripture Reading: Romans 12:1-2, 1 Corinthians 2:16

No, this isn’t about drinking alcohol. Paul is talking about an entirely different kind of sobriety here. Sobriety in our thinking, something I think we’d all agree society could use a glass or two of. What does it mean to be sober-minded?

The Merriam-Webster online dictionary’s definition of “sober” will help us understand.

Sober – to be calm, unhurried, marked by temperance, moderation, or seriousness.

Remember who Paul is writing to. Timothy is a spiritual son – young, a pastor, and a leader. Paul strongly encourages Timothy to pay attention to some very important characteristics. Characteristics Paul hoped would be cemented into Timothy’s life.

Timothy was young, in life and ministry, and Paul knew he needed some perspective, some maturity, and direction for his personal development. By the way, this is not age-sensitive; Paul’s advice works at every stage of life and leadership.

Being sober-minded is being a clear thinker. It’s about getting away from the wrong influence so we can be clear-headed in judgments and behaviors. We shouldn’t be intoxicated by successes or totally defeated by failures. Sober-minded is “calm, unhurried, marked by temperance, moderation, or seriousness.”

We can all nod our heads in agreement that right thinking is critical for right living. We can all mature in the area of our thought life. But let’s face it, it won’t happen overnight; it will take daily focus and effort.

So, what can we do daily to help us with our thinking? Two things (to start):

1. Daily Devotions and Bible Reading.
2. Ask God to renew your mind (see Romans 12:2). He will help you!

Prayer: Dear God, please help me identify areas in my thinking that need your thoughts and renew my mind so I can have them.

Reflect: Your mission, if you choose to accept it: What areas of thinking need more sober-mindedness? Write them out and ask God to help you have His thoughts in those areas.

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About

Paul Fraser

Paul is currently serving as the National Church Multiplication Coordinator for the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. He has been in full-time ministry for 23 years. Reaching people far from God, church multiplication and the next generation are his ministry passions. Paul believes the best days are still ahead for advancing God’s Kingdom in Canada and that we all have a part to play.

Paul Fraser

Paul is currently serving as the National Church Multiplication Coordinator for the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. He has been in full-time ministry for 23 years. Reaching people far from God, church multiplication and the next generation are his ministry passions. Paul believes the best days are still ahead for advancing God’s Kingdom in Canada and that we all have a part to play.