Be Steadfast In Ministry (Dec 10)
Paul writes his 2nd letter to Timothy
from prison, death is imminent
(4:6); and he is cold and lonely.
And yet the focus of Paul’s letter
is not on his own problems and
needs but on the problems and
needs of young Timothy who is
pastor of the church at Ephesus.
Paul, who has stood faithfully for
the Lord throughout his life, now
passes on that same challenge
to Timothy. There is no need to
fear persecution or pain, when
You serve the Lord of the universe
and endure hardship for His sake.
Lord, we’ll Endure Suffering:
I thank God whom I serve…
with a clear conscience, as night
and day I constantly remember
you in my prayers (2 Tim 1:3).
Be strong with the special favour
God gives you in Christ Jesus.
You have heard me teach many
things that have been confirmed
by many reliable witnesses.
Teach these great truths to trust-
worthy people who are able to pass
them on to others (2 Tim 2:1-2).
Endure Suffering along with me.
And as Christ’s soldiers, do not let
yourself become tied up in the
affairs of this life… Follow the Lord’s
rules for doing His work, just as
an athlete either follows the rules
or is disqualified and wins no prize.
Hardworking farmers are the first to
enjoy the fruit of their labour (v3-6).
Lord, Help me to not forget anyone
in my prayers. Show me especially
people who are lonely and feel
forgotten so that I can remember
them in intercession. Bring specific
people to mind who need a miracle
of healing or help or deliverance.
Show me who needs to hear
Your voice guiding them. And
enable the people I pray to sense
Your love in their lives. Amen.
Lord, Thank You for the blessed
privilege of being used by Your
Holy Spirit in the lives of others.
Prepare the hearts of those to
whom You Lord are calling me to
witness or to encourage or edify.
Give me boldness mingled with
love; and let me not miss or shy
away from any opportunity to
pass on to others the great truths
that have changed my life. Amen.
Lord, we realise living a life of
faith requires much endurance.
Help us to endure the hardship
and restrictions of a soldier.
Help us to be like a good athlete
who follows the rules of the sport.
Help us be like a farmer who is
hardworking to taste the fruit
of his labour. Grant us the grace
of perseverance, discipline and
hardwork for Your glory. Amen.