After six chapters of warnings against false teaching and bad behavior and all the ways we can screw things up, he closes with a reminder of what is important.

Of what is essential.

Of what will endure.

These words rang true for Timothy.

These words rang true for the Queen.

And I pray these words ring true for you and for me…

“But as for you, children of God, shun all worldly things…

Shun power and riches and fame and control and division and hatred and ego…

And pursue good things…

pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, gentleness, endurance….

Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life, to which you were called…”