2 Timothy1:8b-9a
But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life- not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.
This verse reminds me I am not working toward some unattainable and unrealistic goal. God, with the grace only He is able to show, has promised us eternal life. We are not “performing“ for Him. We do not need to earn this prize. He has offered it to me, and so I will live my life in constant thanks for this gift. Accepting Jesus Christ as my savior is all I need do. God has given me eternity with Him.
Holy Father, I am truly thankful. I certainly have done nothing to deserve all you have given me. I am sorry for the many times I have let you down. I owe you my very life, and am grateful for your grace. Words are not sufficient, but you know my heart. Amen
Becky, transforming
2 Timothy 1:8b-9a In Paul’s letter to Timothy, he reiterates his words from Ephesians; we are saved by grace alone. Grace through faith in Jesus and not by our own efforts or works. Although we are called to act out our faith and do good works so people will know Jesus through us, it is not these works that save us. It is simply by grace freely given. Prayer, Gracious God, help me remember that the work I do in your name is done so others may know you. It is your Grace that will save me, not my works. Amen
2 Timothy 1: 8b-9a This scripture had a sad tone, as Paul is in prison and he knew he would soon die. He wrote a letter to his dear friend Timothy, a younger man who was like a son to him. I am traveling with Paul through the book of Acts, if ever there was a prophet dedicating his life to Christ it was him. Paul takes Timothy to travel with him, giving helpful advise to remain grounded and committed in his Christian service because he will endure much suffering for the gospel during the difficult days to come. The Holy Spirit helps me/you to be wise and strong. God will honor our confident testimony even if we suffer. I…
2 Timothy 1:8b-9a Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.
Paul and Timothy suffered for Jesus by continuing to teach Jesus’ word when the powers that be condemned it. They obviously felt God’s grace as a constant source of strength. I, just as obviously, don’t feel God’s grace as much because I could not spend my life in that way. I must fall back on the talents that God gave me and hope that is enough.
Dear Lord give strength to those throughout the world who follow in Timothy’s footsteps and help me to do what I can with what you have given me. Amen.
2 Timothy 1: 8b Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. 9b This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time
Jesus was our gift of grace. I sometimes wish I could feel grace as a tangible object. This may sound rather silly, but like believing in God, it would make life easier. But perhaps life wasn’t meant to be easy and this gift of grace fortifies us and helps us endure. Jesus took on unbearable suffering so that we may live. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ is the anchor that holds me in place.
Dearest Lord, thank you for the grace you have given me. Thi…
2 Timothy1:8b-9a
This passage reminds me of Pastor Jen’s childhood perception of God, a perception still held by many adults today. She described a stern disciplinarian who kept a ledger book with heaven dependent on our score. When we finally understand and accept God’s grace, we have all the assurance we need of heaven. We strive to walk in the light out of thanksgiving for this gift, not to earn it. Likewise, this assurance does not mean a trouble-free life, as we are told in plain language, we may have to suffer for the Gospel. May we always remain up to the task at hand.
Prayer - Gracious God, I understand there is nothing I have done or can do…