2 Timothy 4:9-22
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 4:9-22
At my first defence, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. (v16-17)
Encounter: I have a vivid memory of being ten and playing a football match against another school in a different part of town. After the game there was a buzz of comings and goings as parents collected their children. It was now dark and eventually it was only me left with my football coach. He asked if my parents were coming and I hesitantly replied, 'I think so.' That was enough for him and he was off, leaving me alone in the dark, in an unknown area, terrified!
Paul is being beautifully honest and real about all he’s facing and feeling. Demas has deserted him. Crescens … gone to Galatia. Titus … off to Dalmatia. Alexander has caused great harm. In Paul’s moment of need, no one came to his support. The reality is – life and ministry are hard. People are imperfect; they will let us down. There will be times where we feel alone. But the great news is there is one who sticks 'closer than a brother'. In Paul’s moment of need, failed by others, the Lord stood at his side, giving him strength to keep going.
Apply: Relationships matter deeply to Paul. In a deeply moving way, he expresses not only the pain of being let down, but also his willingness to forgive and let go … 'May it not be held against them.'
During the years I’ve served and been part of several different churches, I’ve had to learn what it means to forgive those who let me down. I’ve also had to ask for forgiveness when I’ve let others down. The former Vicar of HTB, Bishop Sandy Miller would say, 'The calling is divine; but the relationships are human.' Through it all, we can be confident in one who will never leave us nor forsake us. In Jesus, we have a Saviour who stands by our side, comforts, and strengthens us.
Devote: Lord Jesus, thank you for your faithfulness and strength. Today, if I feel overwhelmed or alone, may I know that you are standing with me.