We all give our attention to something. However, certain activities are of far more value than are others.
The elder Paul planned to come and instruct young Timothy personally. Until then, he gave him his sage counsel. Choose to give your attention to reading. This probably referred to the public reading of Scripture. In Timothy’s ministry, he needed to keep God’s word central. There is something powerful about God’s people hearing His word read aloud. Paul might have added: and read it confidently! The Bible ought not to be ready like any other book. It is God’s word!
Timothy was also to give attention to exhortation. That is, once we have heard what God’s word says, we ought to encourage each other to believe it and to obey it. Teaching informs us of what God said. Exhortation urges us to obey what God said.
Timothy was also to focus on doctrine. That is on the truths of God’s word. If his ministry was focused on Scripture, he would always be in a position for the Holy Spirit to use his life powerfully.
While many distractions and crises can assault us and demand our attention, we ultimately have the choice of where we give our attention. Choose to keep your focus centered on God’s word.