2 Timothy 4
August 26, 2022
“But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry. For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now 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.” (v5-8)
Paul offers Timothy some wise, practical counsel in his role as a pastor:
Keep a level head
Endure hardship
Preach the gospel
Share the ministry with others
The reason for this advice (v5) is that Paul is about to depart and be with Christ, and receive the crown for finishing his life’s work. Not only does this make Paul’s counsel all the more meaningful (that it could be his final advice). It also makes Paul’s counsel all the more inspiring - as Timothy is reminded that (like Paul) Christ and the crown await him, too, at the conclusion of his life’s work.
Lord, You know how my first reaction to Paul’s advice to Timothy (“endure hardship”) followed by his words about himself (“now there is in store for me the crown”) was jealousy. I want to be that close to the crown and the finish line. On the one hand, I thank You for growing my conviction that this world is not my home, and for deepening my desire for You and Your coming Kingdom. On the other hand, I know I’m not there yet. There is still work to do. And so I do pray for Your help to “keep my head, endure hardship,” etc. for as long as there is still breath in my lungs. Be glorified in my life, Lord!
— 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?
