NT Fire Starters – Day 299: 2 Timothy 4:1-22

READ: 2 Timothy 4:1-22

THINK: Are you ready? Ready to run your race? Ready to serve? Ready to speak up? Ready to face opposition? Ready to defend the truth? Ready to be patient with people? Ready to resist false teaching? Ready to finish what you’ve started for God? Ready for the Lord’s return? With Jesus by your side, you can always be ready.

RESPOND: In regard to ministering for Christ, what does it mean to “be prepared in season and out of season” (v. 2), and why is this important? (See 4:2 note.) Why must ministry be done “with great patience and careful instruction” (v. 2)? What does it mean that “the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine” (v. 3), and how will this be increasingly evident in the days before Christ returns? (See 4:3-4 note.) What does this mean for those who remain faithful to Christ and His Word? What is “the truth” that people will turn from, and what will they rely on instead? (See 4:4 note.) What does Paul mean when he says that he is “already being poured out like a drink offering” (v. 6)? (See Philippians 2:17 note.) What are the implications of Paul’s words, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith”? (See 4:7 note.) How should all true Christians follow that example? What is “the crown of righteousness” that is in store for “all who have longed for [Christ’s] appearing”? (See 4:8 first note.) Why is it important for Christians to live with intense longing and anticipation for Jesus’ return? (See 4:8 second note.) What can you learn from Paul’s attitude toward those who deserted him (v. 16)? How did a strong awareness of the Lord’s presence help Paul through tough times? (See 4:17 note.) In what way should Paul’s life serve as an example and encouragement to all followers of Christ, regardless of their circumstances?

PRAY: Pray for readiness at all times and in all situations to serve God’s purposes and influence others for Christ. Ask God for strength to stand up to the persecution you will face for remaining faithful to Him in the days ahead. Pray for endurance to “finish the race” marked out for you. Thank Jesus for His constant help and presence.

ACT: Be ready for God to use you in an unexpected way to accomplish something or to influence someone for Him.