I attend a Bible Study on Tuesday mornings, studying the book of II Timothy this year.
I want to remember what I’ve learned by jotting down three major lessons that I learned:
1. Don’t expect the Christian life to be easy. Paul and Timothy and countless others suffered for the sake of the gospel. Paul says, “Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.” II Tim 2:3
2. But don’t be in despair when difficulties come my way. Though I cannot always depend on people to help me, the Lord himself is there to give me the strength to persevere. Paul says, “…no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me…But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed…” II Tim 4:16-17
3. One of the reasons that I need to persevere is that I want to pass on my faith to my children and others who are influenced by me. In II Timothy, Paul knew his time on earth is coming to an end. He was exhorting and instructing Timothy to carry on the ministry of the gospel. Paul’s perseverance was an example and an encouragement for Timothy. If Paul can finish strong, Timothy knew he can too. I want to be an example to my children so that they too will hang on to their faith when they go through trials. I want them to to receive 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.” II Tim 4:8