2 Timothy 4:1-8
Be Still: Lord today, open the eyes of my heart. Speak to me through your Word. Guide my steps and lead me in your everlasting ways. Amen
Read: 2 Timothy 4:1-8
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction. (v2)
Encounter: Daily we are being shaped and formed by the messages around us. So many varied voices speaking into our lives, teaching us, developing our values, training our thinking. It is estimated that we hear around 30,000 words per day. With so many messages out there, it is easy to pick and choose the path and teaching that best suits us. For a culture that is ‘self-obsessed,’ this works brilliantly. As Paul describes, we tune into and live by the teaching that our 'itching ears want to hear.' (v3)
But the problem is God isn’t one voice amongst many; his Word is the Way we are to follow. He has a plan and a purpose for our lives. He wants to direct us in his ways that lead to everlasting life. And so, Paul writes to his young disciple Timothy preach God’s Word. Be faithful in studying it, consuming it, acting on it. When you feel like it (in season) and when you don’t (out of season). With great patience keep going and trust that Christ's teaching has the power to not only transform our lives, but the lives of those around us.
Apply: Paul’s words challenge us to reflect upon what ultimately is guiding us. God leads us and speaks in many ways, but the Scriptures are the central gift to us in discovering the way of Jesus. Let's be honest – it can be a hard, confusing, and complicated book to engage with and digest. But it's worth the fight.
Paul exhorts Timothy to teach others though the ‘preaching’ of the Word. The best way to preach to others is to allow the Word of God to preach to ourselves. To allow God’s word to correct, rebuke, encourage and instruct us. How is the Word of God shaping me? What are the voices in my life that I need to dial out?
Devote: Lord, show me where I’m absorbing messages, themes and a way of living that are at odds with you. Give me renewed passion for the Bible. Help me to keep following you faithfully.