“Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” (1 Timothy 6:12)
Paul commends believers to a life of discipleship. We are not follow after earthly lusts or worldly pursuits for wealth, fame, power or desires of the flesh. Our culture is not only consumed by such pursuits but promotes and commends them as rights and virtues. The disciple, however, is called to live a life of faith and righteousness. To help us, Paul cites the example of Jesus. The Lord witnessed to the truth with word and deeds. We are to stand up for the truth in the same way with words and in deeds. We are to avoid petty squabbles and contentious debates as such are fruitless. We are to back up our teaching with life. We are called to serve God and others, not to be served or exalted with pride.
Immortality and eternal life found in God alone not in the things of this world or money or fame or power or possessions. What do any of these things matter in Eternity? If we are committed to serve the Lord then all the money we earn or receive is His not ours. We must be content with what He gives us for our daily use. All we have or earn or own has been entrusted to us as His stewards is to be used for His purposes not to be spent on pampering ourselves with material possessions or lavish entertainments and vacations. After all, we cannot take any material things into the next life. Only deeds of godly righteousness will last for eternity. This is why Paul insists that godliness is demonstrated in loving relationships that show respect, in thankfulness and contentment with what one has, and with generous giving and charity to the poor rather that asceticism, legalism or selfishness.