What is Acceptable?

1 Timothy 2-Part 2
For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior. 1 Timothy 2:3


LET IT GLOW

Girls don't spit, even if daddy does; don't talk with your mouth full; use your fork; don't throw things in the house; close the door, don't let it slam; it's bedtime; do your homework; low-cut tops, high-riding shorts and skirts will not be worn in this family; go change your clothes; don't use that tone of voice with me; respect your elders. Need I go on? There's a neverending list, isn't there? It's our job as parents and grandparents to teach our offspring what is acceptable and unacceptable. "Anything goes" has been the philosophy of the world for quite some time. Therefore, as Christians, we have to teach our children and grandchildren what is acceptable and not acceptable in all areas of life. If we neglect this responsibility, they will go the way of the world and not live for Jesus.

What is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior? Paul tells us in the previous verses, 1-2 of this chapter.
 He mentions here:
*Live a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
*Pray for all sorts of men (people) and their salvation-Jews, Gentiles, Heathens, rich and poor, young and
  old, male and female, religious and pagans.
*Pray for those in government offices.
*Make supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks for everyone

These are good and acceptable to God. Now, the question is, "Am I doing it?" Do I pray for our national leaders, my state leaders, and local leaders as they make decisions concerning what is acceptable and unaceptable in our society? I admit that I lack in this area.
Am I teaching that the Word and prayer is an important part of the Christian life? Do I have a grateful heart and joyful lifestyle? Am I loving my neighbors?


LET IT GROW

Verse 4 reads: Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

That God desires (wants) the salvation of all people does not guarantee that all will be saved. God will not override the reluctance or opposition of individuals bent upon pursuing their own way in defiance of God.
(Shepherd's Notes)

God does not want people to sin. He hates sin with all His being (Ps. 5:4; 45:7); thus, He hates its consequences-eternal wickedness in hell. He chose only the elect out of the world (John 17:6) and passed over the rest, leaving them to the consequences of their sin, unbelief, and rejection of Christ (Rom.1:18-32). Ultimatelly, God's choices are determined by His sovereign, eternal purpose, not His desires.
(MacArthur Bible Commentary)

Liberty Bible Commentary has this to say:

God certainly doesn't want anyone in hell (2 Peter 3:9). But no one will ever go to hell who ought not be there! He doesn't say He "wishes to save all men" for men could then say, "Why doesn't He save all of them?" What truth they have known, the unsaved have rejected (Rom.1:19-23) or God would have given them more truth (John 7:17).

Because we don't know who will be saved, we need to continue to pray for them and to witness to them.
Am I helping the lost find the Truth?


LET IT GO


Pray more.

Let go of my sinful ways and live for Jesus.