2 Timothy 1:1-8

Hey New Life,

Hope your week is off to a great start! We are starting a new book today in our Daily Bible devotional (2 Timothy 1:1-8). This is Paul's last letter in the Bible before his death. What would you write about if you knew your death was near?

In this introduction, we see Paul's love for Timothy, his praise for Timothy's story of faith, and an encouragement to live unashamed of the gospel. Paul calls Timothy his beloved child (v. 2) and prays for him night and day (v. 3). Do we disciple others with this familial love and devoted affection?

Second, Paul praises the Lord for Timothy's story of faith that goes back to his mother and grandmother (v. 5). Our stories may not be identical to Timothy's, but there are similarities. We are here, because people loved us enough to share the gospel with us. We are here, because people have prayed for us. We stand on the shoulders of the men and women of faith who have gone before us.

Lastly, Paul calls Timothy to live unashamed of the gospel (v. 8). He even encourages him to share in the suffering. Timothy and we are able to do this, because Jesus has taken on all our shame and judgment for sin. Our suffering is not to punish us but to purify us. It's for our good and His glory. He has done all this to bring us into His family and to be a blessing for the world.

Take some time this week to read Paul's last words in the Bible in 2 Timothy. Be humbled. Be encouraged. And live in faith!

In Christ,
Pastor Tim