Scripture Reading(s)
2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18
4:6 As for me, I am already being poured out as a libation, and the time of my departure has come.
4:7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
4:8 From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
4:16 At my first defense no one came to my support, but all deserted me. May it not be counted against them!
4:17 But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.
4:18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and save me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Reflections
We are always at war when it comes to living the Christian life. There is always the reality of facing persecution even in our day to day lives. Persecution takes place in all shapes and forms. Whether it’s verbal or physical it can be a big reality for a lot of Christians.
This passage teaches us that through our dependence on God alone we can endure our faith being tested. The last verse encompasses how ones faith in God can bring them through the fire and come out being refined and stronger.
One beautiful thing we see in how God works is despite the evil that rages through persecution, God can still use that to bring about the Gospel. The Gospel does not die and it will continue to be spread to the world. It is a message that evil will not prevail and Gods hand will always shine through.
The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and save me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever.
Whether or not God promised to rescue Paul as he claims, it was Paul’s faith and trust in the Lord that made his ministry great. The book of Hebrews says that it is impossible to please God without faith. Jesus said to people as he healed them that their faith has made them whole. Why is faith so important?
Faith is important because it requires for us to follow the Lord and believe that He is in control. No one can stand up against God and win. No one can mock God and get away with it. By serving such a God we are an extension of His will and we are to be His hands and feet on the earth, bringing glory to God. But we cannot bring glory to God without faith.
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