sustain

“You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.”

2 Timothy 2:1 NIV

 Our strength is not in what we have or do, but in who Christ is for us. 

By God’s divine grace we are more than conquerors. There is a fullness to supply us, encourage us, strengthen and sustain us. In order to be strong and dedicated in our faith, Paul reminds us:

We are teachers. “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” (v.2) We learn, not only for ourselves but in order to teach. Jesus told us to go and make disciples and empowers us to do so by the power and authority he gives. (Mt 28:19-20) Plus, sometimes the best thing you can do when you’re feeling discouraged is encourage someone else!

We are soldiers. “Join me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer.” (v.3-4)  Anyone who serves the Lord faithfully will face difficulty, but God’s grace is equipping us to look beyond the pain and towards the reward He has in store for us.

We are athletes. “Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules.” (v.5) Just as an athlete trains and disciplines their body and mind, we too must follow the Lord’s commands with maximum effort. Set aside every weight hindering your faithful pursuit and run to win the prize! (Ro 12:11)

We are farmers. “The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops.” (v.6) It has been said, the grass isn’t greener on the other side, it’s green where you water it. If we are faithful with what’s in front of us, we can be confident we will reap a harvest of great joy, favor and opportunity.

The work will be hard, friend. But God’s grace is sufficient. Be strong and confident in your dependence.

“You Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light. With Your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall.” (Ps 18:28-29)

Practice:

2 Tim 2:7 reads, “Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this.” Spend some time reflecting on these four characteristics.

—In which one do you see yourself most?
—Where do you see room for growth?
—What in your life is maximizing your pursuit of the Lord?
—Is there anything weighing you down?

centering prayer

 LORD, thank you that Your grace never runs out on me. amen.