DAY 1: 2 TIMOTHY 2:1-6
PICTURE PERFECT
In the passage this week, Craig shared how Paul used pictures or illustrations to get his point across. He begins by giving the attitude of a servant of God — to be strong in the grace of God or in other words, be gracious; excel in grace; focus on grace. Even if TImothy should fall short in other areas, be strong in this area. Learn to deal with others favorably even if they don’t deserve it.
This is followed by the activity of a servant — to reproduce the faith. Timothy was given the responsibility to entrust all that he had learned to faithful men. To this end, Craig shared that we should have two kinds of relationships in our lives: one that gives/teaches someone, and one that learns from someone. Reproducing the faith of others is everyone’s responsibility. Personal relationships are one of the best ways to learn and grow.
The illustrations of this attitude and activity are found in vv. 3-6. Paul compares the life of a servant of God to 1) a soldier, who is willing to endure hardship and throw off the things that entangle or prevent him carrying out his commitment; 2) an athlete, who doesn’t take short cuts to grow, but trains hard; and 3) a farmer, who also works hard, and finds great satisfaction in the end. Indeed, the hard work, discipline, and commitment to growing in the grace of God and helping others do the same is satisfying and rewarding.
How do you see yourself in this life of grace? Are you a soldier battling the temptations and distractions of this world? Maybe an athlete who is training to live by the directions God has given in His word to run this race of faith? Or perhaps a farmer striving to work to grow a crop that will eventually produce a harvest of satisfying results in the end? A life of faith requires commitment, hard work, and discipline. I pray God will help you finish well just as Paul did. Blessings on you this week as you spend time with God. –Mike
