I Timothy 4  Paul warns Timothy (and us) that there are two opposing factions at work in the world and yes, even in the church.  There is a spirit of "apostasy" - that will cause some to "fall away from the faith".  There are "deceiving spirits" and demonic doctrines, taught by liars- hypocrites, who have seared consciences. 

But, there are also those who "believe and know the truth".  True believers will receive God's gifts with gratitude, "for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer."  

Timothy's job was to constantly nourish the believers with "words of faith and.. sound doctrine". 

Paul uses some strong words to bolster Timothy in this work of serving the church.  It was not an easy job then, as it is still a demanding job today.  Paul says:

".. discipline  yourself for the purpose of godliness.." (v7) or as the CJB translates it - "exercise yourself in godliness... valuable for everything, since it holds promise both for the present life and for the life to come." 

"..labor and strive..  - because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers. " 

"Prescribe( command)  and teach.. " 

Let your "speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity" be the example to all who believe.

Give attention to "public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching." 

"Be diligent about this work, throw yourself into it ,so that your progress may be clear to everyone." (v15 CJB)

"Pay attention to yourself and to the teaching... " v16) 

Like Timothy, every pastor or leader... and all the rest of us who are God's "priests"  must take care to follow these guidelines that Paul has provided under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.  Our Christian walk is something that we need to protect.  We need to persevere.  We need to be diligent. 

Father in heaven, help us to hear Your voice and to do Your will.  You are God alone and all things have come from You. We give thanks to You for the Word of Life that nourishes us so that we can walk in Truth and know You more and more.  By Your Grace, may we exercise godliness, strive for faithfulness, and live as an example of what a believer in Jesus Christ should be. Deliver us from lies and deceptions and all falsehoods.  Lead us in paths of righteousness for Your Name's sake. You are our hope and our salvation and in You we trust.  May Your Name be glorified in all the earth we pray, in Jesus' name, amen.