II Timothy 2: 4-7
No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday (civilian) life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier.
And also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules.
The hard-working farmer ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops.
Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.
Paul gives Timothy three very different and varied examples of life-styles: The Soldier, The Athlete, and The Farmer; demonstrating that the attitudes of graciousness, sound doctrine, obedience to the rules and patience, as well as discipline, self-control and perseverance under hardship, are all applicable to every life-style and mode of living.
The Fruit of the Spirit, as listed in Galatians 5:22-23 do not discriminate as to path of life. No matter if we live an active or sedentary life, whether our talents bring us into the arena or the library, the halls of government or the halls of academia, we are all to pursue sound Doctrine, obedience to that Doctrine, and always put God first.
Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
