“So you, my son, be strong [constantly strengthened and empowered in the grace that is [to be found only] in Christ Jesus.”
2 Timothy 2:1 AMP
Grace Perspective:
Paul knew a lot about needing the grace to be strong. He endured tough times of persecution, shipwrecks, imprisonment, beatings and was even left for dead after being stoned. He knew the physical and mental cost of sharing the gospel of grace. In his second letter to Timothy, the apostle encourages his son in the faith to be constantly strengthened and empowered in the grace that is found only in Christ Jesus. Paul knew the road ahead for Timothy would be hard, often involving suffering and pain, so Paul encourages Timothy to remember the strength and endurance God graciously gives to those who seek Him.
Paul reminds Timothy and us that this strength is not found in our inner self but in Christ Jesus. It is not self-reliance but faith in Christ Jesus, who gives us the grace to be strong, empowering us to share the gospel of grace, even when life is hard.
A Touch of Grace:
When do you feel strong?
What are your weaknesses?
Grace Application:
I’m constantly reminded that self-sufficiency is not a godly trait but a sin. I tend to forget this when life is busy with a to-do list that’s so long I can’t see the end. It is a struggle for me to remember that my priorities are often out of balance. My top priority is sharing the gospel of grace with those around me.
When I get wrapped up in the worries of the “what ifs,” I lose focus of why I’m here, to serve Christ Jesus. I can quickly get sidetracked doing what I think is most important (usually what’s important to me) and forget that God may have another plan. When I’m busy following my list, I become cranky and tired. I need to be constantly reminded that Jesus is my source of strength. He is ready to strengthen me, but I have to humble myself to receive the grace to be strong.
Prayer
Gracious Father, Thank You for giving me the grace to be strong. Forgive me for thinking I can do life my own way and in my own strength. Holy Spirit, remind me that apart from You, I am weak, but in You, I receive all the strength and power I need to serve You. In the precious name of Jesus Christ, my Savior, Amen.
**Today, as you read this, I pray each of you will know for sure you are in Christ Jesus. If you have any doubts, please call out to God so that all doubt is erased. Today is a good day to be assured of salvation in Christ Jesus. If you have any questions, please contact me at graceisdawning@gmail.com**