Let's take a stroll through 1 Timothy 1: Day 1. READ! Please read 1 Timothy more than once (5-6 readings? - you might spread this out over several days/weeks?), and in more than one version; KJV, NASB, NLT, HSB, ESV, etc. (or more than one translation if you are multi-lingual);. Also, you would be wise to invest in a solid study bible if you haven't already (I have always been partial to the NIV study bible, but have enjoyed the Archeological Study Bible as well as some others). Day 2. High Level What is the major theme of the chapter? How do you know? How does this chapter fit into the overall flow of the book? What themes or reoccurring messages prick your heart personally? For me it is themes like modesty, money and wealth, gentleness, and teaching and preaching. Day 3. Setting The Pace (1 Tim 1:3-5) In the very beginning of Paul's first letter to Timothy (written somewhere between 62-66 A.D. while Paul was away from Timothy and Timothy was left leading a growing congregation in Ephesus, c.f. 1 Tim 1:3), he mentions that the advancing of God's work is by faith (contrary to by our efforts alone) - c.f. 1 Tim 1:4. And that Paul's ultimate goal of his instruction to Timothy is love (c.f. 1 Tim 1:5). We would be wise to remember in our day to day Christian lives, that the goal is always love (c.f. 1 Jn 3:18). Day 4. Growing Humility (1 Tim 1:15-16) As you trace Paul's life throughout the writings of the N.T., you see him continually growing in his humility. Starting out as Saul of Tarsus (c.f. Acts 7; 9) who was a Hebrew of Hebrews etc. (c.f. Phil 3:4-6), wrestling with his "thorn" in 2 Cr 12, to being here the "worst of all sinners" toward the later parts of his life. This is perhaps reminiscent of the elders walking away first when challenged by Jesus to throw the first stone (c.f. Jn 8:9). Ask God, yourself, and others close to you; are you growing in your humility, both outwardly and inwardly? Day 5. The Source of Humility (1 Tim 1:12-17) Paul gives us insight into where his growing humility came from; God showing him mercy. In order for you and me to grow in humility we must have a keen awareness and honest sobriety about our own sin and shortcomings, otherwise there is nothing in need of mercy (compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm). - c.f. Mrk 2:17)