2 Timothy

May 28th – 2 Timothy 3:1

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2 Timothy 3:1

Many people mistakenly believe that being a Christian guarantees a life of smooth sailing, free from trials and tribulations. However Jesus promised exactly the opposite. He assured us that we would face hardships, persecution, and challenges because of our faith. And as we draw closer to His return, these difficulties will intensify for followers of Christ. The world will grow increasingly hostile towards those who uphold biblical truths and live according to God’s standards. Yet despite these challenges, we are called to remain steadfast and faithful, knowing that our sufferings are not in vain. Because it’s through our trials in which our faith is refined and our dependence on God deepened. That’s why the promise of His return gives us hope and strength to endure. For Jesus has overcome the world, and He will be with us through every storm. We can trust in His unfailing love and the ultimate victory we have in Him. So as we await His return, let us cling to our faith and in the eternal glory that awaits us.

May 28th – 2 Timothy 3:1 Read More »

April 19th – 2 Timothy 2:21

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2 Timothy 2:21

Spring’s arrival brings with it a season of preparation. A time when gardeners diligently till the soil and sow seeds in hopeful anticipation of the abundant harvest to come. In much the same way, our spiritual journey requires intentional preparation and cultivation. The soil of our hearts needs tilling, to remove any obstacles that hinder the harvest in our own lives. Intentional seeds of love, grace, and obedience need to be sown with care in the hopes of producing a garden of fruits for the Lord. Today, let us pause and seek God’s guidance in preparing our hearts to be vessels of His love and grace. May we surrender any impurities or distractions that hinder our effectiveness in His service, allowing Him to mold us into instruments for His divine purposes. With hearts purified and minds focused, let us step forward with confidence, ready to do the good works that God has prepared in advance for us to do. All with the goal of yielding an abundant harvest for God, and bringing glory to His name.

April 19th – 2 Timothy 2:21 Read More »

October 27th – Exodus 34:6

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Exodus 34:6

Solomon was a wise man. And in Proverbs 14:29 he says, “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” Boy does that ring true. Patience is a virtue I struggle with daily. And inevitably impatience leads to anger, followed by jumping to conclusions, ending with regret. That’s why I’m so very thankful God’s mercy extends far beyond my shortcomings. In spite of myself, His grace flows endlessly. When I am faithless, His love and faithfulness never waver. Because God’s abundant goodness is not limited by our limitations. It’s an ever continuing supply of hope and assurance. A reminder of His unfailing presence in our lives. And an invitation to embrace the richness of His blessings with gratitude and humility. The world is filled so much anger and division. Jesus warned that in the last days people would become lovers of themselves and money. They’ll be braggers, arrogant, and abusive. (2 Tim. 3:2) May it not be with God’s people. May we abound in love.

October 27th – Exodus 34:6 Read More »

April 23rd – 2 Timothy 1:9

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2 Timothy 1:9

Whenever I would hear people talk about how they found God’s purpose for their lives, I felt jealous. I didn’t understand why God made their paths straight and clear while mine was crooked and murky. Did they have some special phone line to Heaven that I didn’t? Why were they part of the “it” crowd while I remained on the outside looking in? I was so caught up in finding out what God had planned for me, that I forgot what His calling is truly about. It isn’t what I can do for God, but rather what God can do both for me and through me for others. God has personally set each of us apart to have a close personal relationship with Himself. And He desires hearts that earnestly seek His will above all else. Those who joyfully spend time daily with Him and in His Word, and are open to being used by Him. Answering God’s call means submitting every area of our lives to the Lord and being obedient to the direction of His Spirit’s leading. Knowing that there is no greater calling than bringing  glory to His name!

April 23rd – 2 Timothy 1:9 Read More »

March 19th – 2 Timothy 3:16

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2 Timothy 3:16

 Many are the ways and forms in which God sends us help, and one of the most powerful is His Word. And what a blessing is the Bible. No wonder it’s the best selling book of all time! For it contains the history of creation, the Good News of Jesus Christ, and the wonderful promises of God. Beyond that the Bible is also a blueprint for life, giving us valuable advice and practical applications for any and all situations. And when we follow it’s wisdom we can’t go wrong. For far from being a book written by man, every word is divinely inspired by God Himself. And it’s benefits include life teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. If we want to deepen our faith and relationship with the Lord, spend time in His Word. Because not only will it help us live according to God’s will, it helps us understand God’s plan for our lives.

March 19th – 2 Timothy 3:16 Read More »

December 28th – Matthew 12:38

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Matthew 12:38

Proof! Show us proof!” Those were the cries of some of the scribes and Pharisees after witnessing Jesus heal a blind and mute man. Their hardened hearts couldn’t accept in faith that Jesus was indeed their long awaited Messiah. Even though the scribes and Pharisees exhibited a wicked disbelief, a healthy skepticism can be a good thing. Especially when it comes to discerning those who claim to speak for God or to represent His Word. Jesus Himself warns, “For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many.” (Matt. 24:5) Because of this God tells us to test everything against what the Bible says. To examine the scriptures and, “see whether these things were so.” (Acts 17:11) And why do we use the Bible as our “litmus test” of truth? Because we know that every word of Scripture was breathed by God. (2 Tim. 3:16) And every word is true and is the foundation of the Christian Faith!

December 28th – Matthew 12:38 Read More »

September 22nd – 2 Timothy 2:15

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2 Timothy 2:15

Paul was all about winning souls for Jesus. Though he was imprisoned, shipwrecked, stoned, and left for dead, Paul never lost his faith, or desire to please God. I want that kind of boldness. To have the heart of a lion, fearlessly responding to God’s calling regardless of the circumstances. Because sadly, there have been situations when instead of sharing the Gospel, I remained silent from fear of being ridiculed, rejected, or challenged. Other times I’ve shared the Gospel too aggressively or pompously. I looked down my nose at those who didn’t agree with my beliefs or immediately want to reconcile themselves to God. But not Paul. Even though he was bold, he was also kind. Because Paul understood the importance of representing Jesus. Meaning sharing the message of God’s redeeming love with courage, love, grace, and humility. And that’s how I want to share the the Gospel. In a confident, loving, respectful way, doing all for God’s glory!

September 22nd – 2 Timothy 2:15 Read More »

September 15th – Ephesians 3:8

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Ephesians 3:8

Paul was a man who tried to destroy God’s people. Yet not only was he pardoned, but given the great privilege of spreading God’s message and building His church. But the assignment came at a high price. Paul was beaten, stoned, jailed, shipwrecked, and robbed, among other sufferings. Still, regardless of the set backs, Paul faithfully carried out his task. Throughout the world he fearlessly preached and wrote about the inexhaustible riches and generosity of the Lord. Jesus promised that all who follow Him in faithful obedience, will suffer. (2Tim. 3:12) Does that mean we’ll experience troubles and hurt along the way? Yes. But God’s grace will comfort and love us through. Paul didn’t want the Ephesians to feel sorry for the tribulations he endured. Because he was being used in a way greater than he could ever imagine. If we let Him, God will us too in great ways. And the rewards awaiting our obedience, far outweigh any troubles we experience in the Lord’s name!

 

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April 25th – Romans 8:28

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Romans 8:28

This world, ruled by Satan, is filled with evil. And each day grows darker than the one before. That’s why every fiber of my being cries out for the return of Jesus. Oh how I long for my glorified body, and to dwell with the Lord forever. Because let’s face it. This side of heaven is a tough place to be. We know Jesus Himself promised rocky times for His followers dwelling on earth. (2Tim. 3:12) And there’s not a single one of us who hasn’t been touched by suffering or faced trials. But the apostle Paul also gives us another promise. Everything we go through, God will use for good for those who love Him. All God asks, is that we trust in the uniquely wonderful plan He has for each of us. In patience, to continue loving, obeying, and praising Him, in good times and bad. All while remembering that while we wait for Christ’s return, neither a smile nor a tear is wasted.

 

April 25th – Romans 8:28 Read More »

January 3rd – 2 Timothy 1:7

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2 Timothy 1:7

God’s gift of emotions can be a double edged sword. For with one side we experience love, joy, and gratitude. Yet with the other, pain, fear, and doubt. And make no mistake. Satan wields the bitter side of that blade ferociously and without mercy. But get this. He can only attack if we let him. You heard me. The Enemy can only strike when we allow him a foothold into our hearts and minds.

Paul makes it very clear in his letter to Timothy. God fills our spirits with His strength, power and love. The same power flowing through Jesus as He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and walked on water, resides in us! And that power of God waits with an extended hand for us to grab hold. Because overcoming fear is a two person operation. God gives us the power, but we have to use our sound minds to practice self control. Meaning we are to actively, and intentionally take ahold of our thoughts. And filter those thoughts through the sieve of God’s truth instead of Satan’s lies.

We are in a battle of a lifetime, and I truly believe we are living in the last days. So how am I going to spend the time remaining? One thing I know for sure, is that I’m done wasting it being afraid. I’m tired of running scared. I’m tired of letting Satan control my thoughts. And I’m tired of going down the rabbit hole of “what ifs.” I’m ready to go to war, with God as my Captain.

So the next time I find myself afraid, stuck, and unable to move, I’m  going yell out the word FEAR as a call to my Father, Emmanuel, Adonai, and Redeemer. Ruler and Creator of all things, “the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory” (Deuteronomy 20:4)

January 3rd – 2 Timothy 1:7 Read More »