2 Timothy 1:3–7 (ESV) — 3 I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with
a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. 4 As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with
joy. 5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that
dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure,
dwells in you as well. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the
gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and
self-control.
NOTE: This letter to
Timothy (when read fully) reveals a Paul deserted by friends because of Nero's
war against Christian sect leaders. Paul's first defense did not go well. Paul
recognizes that he is already (pre-determined) to be a sacrifice for Nero's
burning down of the city. Also, Paul suggest the end is coming soon. The last
days are approaching. His race and fight is over. And so he wants to encourage
his spiritual son Timothy because everything is going to get much harder to
live as a Christian. How does he encourage him? He reminds him of the
special-ness of his conversion and Paul's joy in seeing his faith. I think it is
good to remember those days. God reached out to me in college, during the
"I found it" campaign and through the ministry of the Navigators. Tom
F., Bill M., and others made me feel special. I learned that love can
be found in dedicated believers. I watched as the word of God transformed me
from the inside out. I felt the power of the resurrected life. No matter what
happens in the days ahead, for those who have experienced the new birth, there
is no fear. We are His. We have a glorious future.
PRAYER: I am yours.
I am purchased by your blood. I am part of your family. And you have promised
me to never leave or forsake me. I am loved unconditionally and eternally.
Thank you for all that you have done for me. I am an unworthy son.
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