NT Fire Starters – Day 297: 2 Timothy 1:1-18
READ: 2 Timothy 1:1-18
THINK: When it comes to following Jesus, life can be an adventure. But because God doesn’t often show us what’s in store, it’s easy to get anxious or even a bit fearful about what lies ahead. That’s where faith comes in, though one thing is certain: where God guides, He provides. Whatever God gives you to do or calls you to endure, as you rely on Jesus, He will provide more than adequate power and capability to see you through.
RESPOND: In light of Paul’s circumstances at the time, what’s so significant about his plea for Timothy to remain faithful to God (v. 8)? (See 1:4 note.) What did Paul mean when he told Timothy to “fan into flame the gift of God”? (See 1:6 note.) What does this imply about God’s gifts to people through the Holy Spirit? What kind of spirit does God give us to serve Him? (See 1:7 note.) How do power, love and self-discipline enable us to overcome timid tendencies regarding our faith, service and witness for God? What confidence can you have about any task to which God calls you? According to verse 8, what enables you to endure suffering for the cause of Christ? According to verse 9, why has God saved us and called us to a holy life? How has Jesus “destroyed death” and “brought life and immortality to light through the gospel” (v. 10)? How can something so powerful and wonderful as the message of Jesus bring suffering (v. 12)? How does Paul’s attitude through suffering challenge and inspire you personally (v. 12)? What is “the pattern of sound teaching”? (See 1:13 note.) Why and how must we guard this message, and who helps us do it? (See 1:14 note.) What added to Paul’s grief and hardship during this time, and what gave him hope and inspiration? (See 1:15 note.)
PRAY: Express thanks to God for those who have influenced you most spiritually, asking Him to bless them in a special way. Pray that you will be an inspiration to others through tough times. Ask God to help you fully develop and boldly use the gifts He’s given you. Thank Him for empowering you to accomplish any task He gives you.
ACT: Consider your God-given interests, abilities and opportunities. Have you been faithful to develop and use these to the fullest? If you’ve hesitated for any reason to venture out and apply your gifts, exercise the power and discipline God has provided for you and take a step toward using your gifts to honor God and to benefit others.