Paul challenged Timothy with the importance of leaders being solid, stable people who are committed to living a life on this earth that represents well the God they serve. I seem to keep coming back in my own life with the dicotomy between not working to earn salvation, yet working to live a life according to God's plan. Though I cannot earn my way to heaven, I need to take seriously my life on this earth. We have such an opportunity to be blessed as we serve God, with so much more hope of understanding His will and plan for our lives if we follow Him closely, and a much clearer perspective on life if we are not being crippled in life by our wrong choices.
Obedience is still important.
I pray that you will be able so find out just how important in your own lives. Have a great day.