The best relationships that exist are those where people are encouraging one another because we will all experience highs and lows; Especially right now. The pandemic has been a challenge and we all have been through the roller coaster of emotions. When some people are in the valley, they have found it hard to come out because they don’t think they have anything to hold on to. During this pandemic, the curtain has been pulled back and a number of things have been exposed. We have seen the mistreatment of people of color, which lets us know racism exists in this country. We are dealing with lies being spread and a number of people are feasting on them. The President implemented a national mandate for all to be vaccinated but the governor of Texas says there will be no mandates in his state. With all that is happening, many people can’t see any good in the world.
In 2 Timothy 1:13-14, Paul is giving Timothy words of encouragement, that will keep him moving forward in the right direction. In doing this, Timothy will be able to ensure his ministry is glorifying the Lord. The first thing Paul says is, “Hold to the standard of sound teaching that you have heard from me.” Timothy needed to know the only way to pull yourself out of the valley, is to hold on to the word of God. When you hold to the word of God, you are able to see God’s power come to light. Because there is life in God’s word and Jesus came to demonstrate how the word can live in us. Why, because the Word became flesh and lived among us, to show us how to live in victory.
Paul also shared with Timothy, everything he taught him was in faith and love that exists in Jesus Christ. Paul wants Timothy to know you must put your complete faith in Jesus. When you have those moments you don’t understand what is going on, you will not waiver. It’s through the faith you have in Jesus, that will guide you every step of the way. Also, you are able to do this, because you know without any reservations that you are loved. So, no matter the situation, you have to know you are loved by the Lord. This is what continued to drive Paul forward in all situations. He had faith in the One that loved him and would never leave him, or forsake him. This is a lesson Paul was teaching Timothy on how to live by faith and love in Jesus Christ.
In following Paul’s lead Timothy would be able to, “guard the good treasure entrusted in him.” Everything the Lord gives us is good. It must be guarded by how we live our lives. People ought to be able to see the good in us, by how we live, without us saying a word. When the burdens of life try to break us down to steal our good treasure, is when the Holy Spirit steps in. The Holy Spirit will always encourage us and give us the support in knowing we are not alone. Therefore, when the enemy attempts to steal from us, the Holy Spirit is there to block him, and strengthen us. We have to remember greater is He that is in us, than he that is in the world. We have been given a good treasure to help us through times of trouble. Therefore, keep focused on the task at hand, and allow the goodness in you to come out. Continue to walk in your blessings!
