“You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings.”
2 Timothy 3:10-11a
Many people are examples of godliness to me. I hope you can think of some in your life, too. God graciously provides people to spur us on in holiness as we observe how they trust God, love others, serve God’s people, and reach out to the lost. Paul commends Timothy for following his example, both in his teaching and his conduct. What an encouragement to Paul that his young friend has walked in his path of faith, patience, love, and steadfastness!
But our hope and strength are not found in looking to others or even to Paul. Paul himself encouraged Timothy to follow what comes from his “faith and love in Christ Jesus” (1:13). The example of others is worthy of imitation only insofar as it leads us to hope in Christ alone.
Thank God for anyone in your life whose faith and hope in Jesus are imitation worthy. But stake your faith, your life, and all your hope on Christ and the good news of salvation in Him. While the godly people you know are an encouragement, it is the perfect life, death, and resurrection of Jesus that you need!
But our hope and strength are not found in looking to others or even to Paul. Paul himself encouraged Timothy to follow what comes from his “faith and love in Christ Jesus” (1:13). The example of others is worthy of imitation only insofar as it leads us to hope in Christ alone.
Thank God for anyone in your life whose faith and hope in Jesus are imitation worthy. But stake your faith, your life, and all your hope on Christ and the good news of salvation in Him. While the godly people you know are an encouragement, it is the perfect life, death, and resurrection of Jesus that you need!
Scripture Focus
2 Timothy 3:10-11
Insight
Father, thank You for providing people to show us what it means to follow Jesus. But let us first and foremost follow You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Bible In A Year
- Jeremiah 17-18
- Psalm 112
- Romans 15-16
