Paul encouraged Timothy to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
In doing so, Paul referred to Timothy’s faith, which first took root in his grandmother, Lois, then infused his mother, Eunice. Paul also pointed to his own example, as well as the heroic service of Onesiphorus, who searched out and revived Paul as he languished in prison.
Paul encouraged others to be strong. To the Ephesian church he wrote, be strong in the Lord and in his might power, and encouraged the believers in Philippi that he remained content in all situations through him who gives me strength.
Grace is the inward source of such strength. I cannot produce this on my own, but I needn’t remain passive. I can eagerly ask the Lord for his help to appropriate the power of grace.
Jesus told Paul, my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. So Paul responded with this philosophy: Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
Unique strength to face the world flows from the grace found in Jesus Christ. Paul possessed it. Lois, Eunice, Onesiphorus and Timothy gained it. This strength in grace waits for you and me. Ask the Lord to begin to grant it in your life.
2 Timothy 2 in reading the Bible in 2023
Photo by Alireza Esmaeeli
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