Pauls Farwell Letter to Timothy

Today’s Reading: Joel 1-3; 2 Timothy 1

In the book of 2 Timothy, Paul writes his last letter to his beloved son in the faith. Paul is passionately pouring out his heart before this beloved disciple of his. You can imagine Timothy as he reads this letter, knowing and expecting that Paul’s execution is at hand. He would have been encouraged by the writings of John when he rehearses the last days with Jesus as he was telling the disciples that he was going to be leaving them soon. “These things I have spoken unto you that in me you might have peace, in the world you will have tribulation but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) It is amazing, the sense that one has when they know that death is at their door—especially for those who are followers of Christ. All of the haze seems to clear away and heaven becomes more in view as earth is literally fading. One’s priorities take focus and eternity is seated in its proper place. Much so now for Timothy who is receiving those last admonitions that a father would give a son. Let’s take these admonitions to heart today and put ourselves in Timothy’s place as we read through this letter. 1) Stir up the gifts, get going on what God has given you and use it for His glory, do not wait another day. 2) Don’t be afraid because fear is paralyzing. 3) Don’t be ashamed of the gospel and don’t worry about how things are turning out for me, just know God is good and faithful and you, son, keep your eyes on Jesus, He alone is the author and finisher of our faith. 4) Keep the faith, son, and daughter and do not lose the truth by being swayed as others of faith have. There is a pattern to live by, I have been faithful to live it out before you, use that to be encouraged in your walk with God. I believe the key to all of this is summed up in 2 Timothy 1:12, “…I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.” So lastly, family, be persuaded of this, HE is ABLE…

In Christ,
Carol

Tomorrow’s Reading: Joel 1-4; 2 Timothy 2