This verse is an inspiration to me.  Perhaps it has a "greater" impact to me because of the "calling" I received in 1978.

I was awakened one evening with what I believed to be "the Lord" speaking to me.  He said, "I have a special work for you to do.  It will require much faith and trust in Jesus, but you will know abundant joy."

I had been instructed to ask for confirmation whenever I "heard" something in the Spirit, so believing this a good time to obey that instruction, I prayed for "a confirmation."

I then sensed that I should look at 1 Tim. 4 and the following words "came alive" for me:  1 Tim. 4:6--"If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters, Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message of faith and the good teaching you have followed.  7-Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives' tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly.  8-'Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and the life to come.'  9-This is a trustworthy saying and everyone should accept it.  10-This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers. " (from commentary:  Christ is the savior for all, but His salvation becomes effective only for those who trust Him. Life Application Bible).

11-Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them..........., be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.  Until I come, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them."  Paul goes on to write: 15- "Give your complete attention to these matters.  Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress.  16-Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching.  Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you."

I believe that those many years ago, I did apply myself to learn and understand the scriptures.  There are a number of issues that I have delved into with great interest beginning with the End Times (or 2nd Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ) and particularly the Rapture of the Church.  Additionally, I have done quite a bit of reading on divorce, remarriage and how it applies to believers, especially those who sense a calling into ministry.  Similarly, there has been an interest in "women in ministry."

As I have looked carefully at each of these topics, I have come to a comfortable place in my beliefs and I have an assurance that as a woman, who is called to teach, I most certainly should and that it is with God's blessing. Also, in spite of having been divorced I should obey this call.

Also, I feel confident that if I continue to put my belief, trust and hope in Jesus Christ, I can avoid the Great Tribulation by obeying the leading of the Holy Spirit in my life.  He will carry those of us who are a part of His Bride out of harm's way and let us sit down to a wonderful dinner with Him.  To encourage me in my assurance, the Holy Spirit allowed me to experience the following:  I "felt" my body seem weightless and I was lifted up (while laughing heartily) onto a cloud.  It was an enchanting "vision" given, I trust, to ensure my belief in The Rapture.

Jesus did say, "In this world, you WILL have tribulation, but, be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." Most anyone who has known the Lord, and walked with Him any length of time will attest to the fact that there are many sorts of "tribulations," even as Believers.

Having shared this personal word with you, I simply want to add that as I was pondering this "post," I kept coming up with the following:  Micah 8--"O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what He requires of you:  to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God."

There are many other thoughts, but I will leave with this one, "Obedience is better than sacrifice."  We all need to "lean not to our own Understanding, but in ALL of our Ways, acknowledge Him...and He will DIRECT our paths."

I hope sharing my 'personal story' will encourage you to walk, run if necessary, but keep on, keeping on in finding and following the "only true/living God."

PTL!