A note from our Pastor:

“And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.”

1 Timothy 6:8

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

Our study verse this week continues a thought that began in verse 6. The Apostle Paul is describing contentment in discipleship. This train of thought stands in contrast to those who would use their religion to gain material wealth. Thus, he continues with his instruction to Timothy and his larger audience.

The first item in the Apostle’s list is clear. People have an essential need for food and drink. Without those not only can they not be content but they also cannot survive. The second item in the list is a term no longer used in modern America. In this verse, it refers to all clothing that is needed for the person. This does not mean an excess of clothing, but appropriate clothing for seasons, work, and other items. In the context of this verse though, raiment also includes shelter. The Apostle recognized that one could not be content without the necessary clothing and shelter for life.

In 1943 American psychologist Abraham Maslow created what is now referred to as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. If you are not familiar with it, the hierarchy is now in the structure of a pyramid. The pyramid is then divided into deficiency needs and growth needs. At the bottom of the pyramid are the deficiency needs including things such as clothing, food, and shelter. The point is, that modern psychology still recognizes the truth the Apostle wrote to Timothy. Having food and raiment (in all its forms) is necessary for contentment.

The unspoken truth in this verse is — that without this contentment spiritual growth is difficult if not impossible. Children of God sadly often are without food, clothing, and shelter. They may know that God loves them. They love God. However, spiritual growth requires an ability to contemplate the greater truths of God. When one is struggling with hunger or constantly having to seek shelter it is difficult to have the strength and focus to meditate upon the things of God.

The instruction from the Apostle is thus twofold. First, if the disciple has the necessary food, clothing, and shelter they should work to be content. There is nothing wrong with having more than just the basic needs. Still, seeking more can make you discontent. This discontent takes you away from the things of God.

Second, the disciples of Christ should be actively engaged in efforts to make sure others have the necessary food, clothing, shelter, and safety they need. Jesus told his believers that what you do unto the least around you, you have also done to me. In making that statement he specifically refers to being in need of clothing and food. Discipleship is blessed when we seek to provide others with basic needs so that they might also be content and might learn more about Jesus and his truth.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah