Bible Chapter: II Timothy 2

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    The Christian life, the ministry for Jesus, is a battlefield.  This is becoming more and more obvious.  Paul challenged Timothy to endure the hardships that come from being a soldier of the cross.  One serving wants to please his commanding officer.  It is not about us, but all about doing what will bring honor and glory to Jesus.
    Correctly handling the Word of truth.  I have read and heard these verses all my life.  It doesn’t seem that it should be that hard to get the basics of the Bible and teach them, especially for those who say they have the call of God on their lives for ministry.  Sadly, correctly handling the Word of truth is not happening in many churches.  Things the Bible has never said are being taught. False teachings are poisoning the world, and especially many who have faithfully gone to church all their lives.  Their church is teaching things, so they figure these things must be true.  We must get to the Bible and study what it says, and then apply that.
    Flee the evil desires that plague the youth.  Seek after righteousness.  Don’t get caught up in foolish arguments, for they don’t produce anything worthwhile.  Let God use each one for the eternal purpose He established.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Keep the proper focus on what is really eternal.  That is what I must continue to do.  In my life I have heard many excellent sounding arguments to get involved in this or that.  Sadly, a deep analysis of these activities causes one to see that they are important, but not eternal issues.  It is important that I maintain a proper handling of God’s Word and teach that.  I must not allow false teaching to corrupt what God intended.
    I must also continue to follow the advice to flee far from even the hint of the uncontrolled desires of the flesh.  I must, as it says, pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace.

3.  How can I help someone?
    I can help people by helping them see what the Bible really says.  In our frustrated and unfilled world we are hearing much about being happy.  I hear people say, “Doesn’t God want me to be happy?”  This sounds like a reasonable question.  Unfortunately, it is often said in the context of justification for some kind of sin.  No, God’s desire is not to make us miserable.  But, as we grow in relationship to Him, we find fulfillment, contentment and fullness of joy.  These will come in our obedience to God.  These beat some kind of temporary happiness any day.