Be diligent in these things. Give yourself wholly to them, that your progress may be revealed to all.
these things: This phrase includes the exhortations Paul gave Timothy to command and teach sound doctrine (11); to maintain the respect of his people through his example of faith (12); to present a balanced treatment of the truth (13); and to continue the use of his gift (14). If Timothy will meditate upon "these things" and allow them to fill his mind completely, he then will be able to perform them. As Solomon says, "As a man thinketh in his heart so is he" (Proverbs 23:7).