- 2 Timothy 2:1-3 - Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
- 2 Timothy 4:17 - Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
- John 16:33 - These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
- 2 Timothy 2:8 - Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel.
In today's passage, the apostle Paul writes: "Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus." Paul knew that the Lord was with him, giving him the strength to spread the Gospel. Therefore, he moved forward with faith. In the same way, the Holy Spirit gives us courage and strength to obey God's commandments. That is why we can rely on His power. As believers, we must share what we know. The church possesses not only the Gospel of salvation but also a rich treasury of God's Word. Many believers have learned from the Scriptures and have seen how God has worked in their lives. Keeping these truths to ourselves leaves unbelievers in despair and deprives other believers of the wisdom they need. We must endure hardships patiently. Trials are a part of the Christian life. Jesus said that we would have trouble in this world, but we can be courageous because He has already overcome the world. Therefore, Paul encouraged Timothy to stand firm in the Lord and to share God's truth with others. Paul advises Timothy to "Remember Jesus Christ." These words apply to us as well. When we direct our focus to the Lord, His grace gives us the strength to share the truth boldly and to persevere in faith until the end.
Reflection
What truth can you share with someone today, and in what hardship do you need to lean on the Lord's strength?
