2 Timothy 3
August 25, 2022
“You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, the persecutions I endured. Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,” (v10-12)
In contrast to those whose lives are marked by self-love, self-righteousness, self-seeking and a lack of self-control (v1-9) - Paul’s life has been marked by “persecutions and sufferings” (v10-11). Paul then reminds Timothy (and us) that “everyone who wants to live a godly life will be persecuted” (v12) - thus undercutting the self-centered prosperity gospel of his opponents.
Father, I praise You that You can not only rescue me from trials (if you choose), You can sustain me through trials, too. Remind me anew that gospel-centered ministry does not lead to a bed of roses (in this life), but to a bed of suffering (in this life). And like Paul, may any suffering that comes my way lead to “faith, patience, love and endurance” (v10), with the sure hope that You and Your Kingdom are worth it.
— Pastor Joshua Brooks
Use the following steps to guide your daily time with the Lord…
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Start with prayer. Ask God to open your heart to help you understand and receive His Word.
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Read and observe the passage carefully. As needed, read a second Bible version to help with understanding.
➡️ What does it say?
What does this passage teach me about God? What does it say about my sinful nature and my need for God’s grace? How does this passage point to Jesus?
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➡️ What am I going to do about it?
Does this passage include a promise to claim, an action/attitude to avoid/embrace, or a principle to apply? How can this truth apply to my life? What could my next step be? How can I share this with others? Is there a verse or section of Scripture I need to memorize?
