The television dulled the sound of my sniffles. Everyone from school hung out at the homecoming game, but I sat on the couch, at home. A neighbor shared the gospel with me months before and I decided to follow Jesus Christ. But as I scrolled through sitcoms on homecoming night my sophomore year, I considered calling up my old friends and returning to our old habits.
But just the thought of rebellion made me nauseous. And then I realized something that surprised me. It was better to sit on my couch following Jesus, alone, than hanging out with the wrong friends. I had spent years living in rebellion and now, I wanted to live for Christ.
When Paul told his son in the faith to be strong in the grace of Jesus Christ (2Timothy 2:1), Timothy faced much more suffering than teenage loneliness. He faced persecution, conflicts within the church, and the stressful responsibility of equipping believers. I wonder what his temptations might have looked like when he felt defeated, weary, lonely. Whatever they were, Paul encouraged Timothy to remain strong in the grace of Jesus Christ.
Sometimes we forget what it means to live under grace rather than the law (Romans 6:1–14). The law burdens us with unrealistic expectations and the unending anxiety of not measuring up. Grace frees us from all of that. But freedom through grace is something we have to stand in, remain in—as we endure whatever suffering we encounter (2Timothy 2:3,11–13).
So how can we follow Paul’s encouragement and “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus” (2Timothy 2:1)? Paul gave Timothy spiritual instructions through three images that might also help us (2Timothy 2:3–7): a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer.
The soldier demonstrates our need to focus. When we keep focused on the grace of the gospel, we face our temporary suffering with strength because we know the promise we endure for—eternal life (John 17:3). The athlete metaphor is a reminder to live according to the rules of the kingdom. Sometimes when we endure opposition or trials, we are tempted to operate according to our own ideas, rather than the rules of the game. Finally, Paul encourages Timothy with the image of a farmer. Farmers rigorously till soil, plant seeds, water, and pull weeds, all examples of serving diligently.
Following Jesus is not easy—but He is worth it. And our coming reward is sure: we will live and reign with Him (2Timothy 2:11–12).
Ladies, I just wanted to share with you what an encouragement you have all been to me over the years. Steve is really doing well at this time (remission) and we are on a business trip with business owners we have been meeting with for 20+ years. Some are strong Christians, some are Jews, others…I just don’t know. But because of Steve’s cancer diagnosis we now have an opportunity to share about God’s provision, goodness, care, love, strength…so I pray that their hearts will be softened and ready to receive the gospel. I don’t want to miss this opportunity…it may be for this that Steve was spared! But my point is, I am more bold to share because of the ways you ladies have shared! So never stop sharing, and being a blessing to others. I am in tears as I type this…what a great and powerful God we serve. Hugs to each of you. ❤️
I have been praying for you and your husband, Sandi, and will continue prayers that the doctors can remove the cancer, reconstruct his leg, and get him pain free. A hard road to travel. Praying for strength for you as well. ❤️
AMANDA, “My grace is sufficient for you my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ then I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecution, and calamities. For when I am weak then I am strong.” 2nd Corinthians 12:9-10. Sending prayers of power!
Thank you!
Amanda, my heart aches for you, and I pray for God to cover you in His Word. I’ve faced devastating loss as well, and I found help when I reached out to others. Be safe and be strengthened through Christ Jesus.
Thank you!
Amanda, what a hard scary place to be. I will definitely keep you are your daughter (and chickens) in prayer.
Thank you!
Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault. All glory to him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Jude v24-25) ❣️
It is not easy being a soldier, an athlete or a farmer. Tough careers requiring much focus, determination, strength, courage and commitment. We, as disciples of Jesus, are called to cultivate the same. Help us, Lord Jesus. Find us faithful. Amen.
Such a great devotion today