In The Word
Read: 2 Timothy 2
Be Strong
2 You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful people who will be able to teach others also. 3 Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him. 5 And if someone likewise competes as an athlete, he is not crowned as victorunless he competes according to the rules. 6 The hard-working farmer ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops. 7 Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.
8 Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, descendant of David, according to my gospel, 9 for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal; but the word of God is not imprisoned. 10 For this reason I endure all things for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus and with it eternal glory. 11 The statement is trustworthy:
For if we died with Him, we will also live with Him;
12 If we endure, we will also reign with Him;
If we deny Him, He will also deny us;
13 If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.
An Unashamed Worker
14 Remind them of these things, and solemnly exhort them in the presence of God not to dispute about words, which is useless and leads to the ruin of the listeners.15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. 16 But avoid worldly andempty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness, 17 and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, 18 men who have gone astray from the truth, claiming that the resurrection has already taken place; and they are jeopardizing the faith of some. 19 Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His;” and, “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to keep away from wickedness.”
20 Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver implements, but also implements of wood and of earthenware, and some are for honor while others arefor dishonor. 21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be an implement for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work. 22 Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love, andpeace with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 23 But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels. 24 The Lord’s bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, skillful in teaching, patient when wronged, 25 with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth,26 and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.
New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation
Walking In The Word
Paul used four illustrations to help Timothy see the character traits of a godly person. The first was a soldier who faced hardships but refused to quit his assignment and rejected distractions in order to complete the mission and please his commander. Many things can distract your attention away from the life God has for you, but be a good soldier who stays committed to King Yeshua. The next example was an athlete who had to follow the rules to win the prize. God has laid out the guidelines for the Christian life, and if you obey with dedication you will have the good life God intends for you. But if the commands are not observed, you can be disqualified.
Paul’s third illustration was a farmer who patiently worked hard to reap the fruit of his crop. Some people sit back, idle and lazy, expecting to receive without any labor. But Christians should be the hardest workers, which yields the reward of God’s promises both in this life and eternity. The final illustration was a diligent worker that was not to be ashamed when his work was inspected. The worker who diligently studies God’s Word and applies it to his own life will be approved, but the incompetent worker will ignore God’s Word or handle it incorrectly to make it say what he wants.
Apply the lessons of all four roles and find God’s best life for you. It will take discipline, focus, effort, and consistency – the reward is well worth it!