2Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with- P48
7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
8Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.- P49
Paul charges Timothy before God and Christ Jesus to preach the Word, correct,
rebuke, and encourage with patience and careful instruction. He warns of atime when people will reject sound doctrine and follow myths. - P49
Paul says he is already being poured out like a drink offering; he has fought the good fight,
finished the race, and awaits the crown of righteousness.- P49
Paul charges Timothy to faithfully proclaim the gospel message and to correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and careful instruction. He warns that many will not listen because they prefer teachers that only talk about what they want to hear. However, Timothy is encouraged to persevere and to be level-headed and prepared for every situation. This exhortation is not simply for church leaders. All Christians at any time should be ready to share the gospel. - P50
In order to be prepared, we should diligently read Scripture, pray, and surround ourselves with those who can help us become more like Christ. Then, we will be able to endure hardship, stay level-headed in all situations, and stand ready for whatever work God has planned for us.- P50
As he sits in prison, Paul knows that he will soon meet his death. Yet, he issatisfied with his life, knowing that he has been faithful to God. Paul hasfought against those who opposed him, and he has persisted through manychallenges to complete his service to God. During Paul‘s time, a winner of arace would receive a victory crown, and Paul is confident that he will receivea crown of righteousness from the Lord because he has been faithful to hiscalling. - P50
May we be like Paul, confident each day that we have been usingour gifts and talents to live out our God-given callings with faithfulnessand righteousness.- P50
Dear God, please prepare me to be an effective witness of the good news of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help me to be bold in my proclamation, fighting through any opposition or challenge, so that I may live out Your call with faithfulness and righteousness. In Jesus’ name, amen.- P51
With the help of the HolySpirit, God‘s Word not only reveals our sin, but it also reveals His immenselove for His people, and this compelling truth is hard to ignore.- P51
