TIMOTHY: STICKING IN THE TOUGH TIMES
I admire the men I have known in India for years who continue to faithfully serve God. Pastor Moses, Pastor Barnabas and many, many others come to mind. Their faithful commitment despite danger and many difficulties is greatly encouraging to me. They stick in tough times. They remind me of Timothy in the Bible.
Paul is recognized as the leader of the early church. We all know of his commitment and steadfastness despite much opposition and persecution. He pointed out sin wherever it was, even in Peter’s life (Galatians 2:11-14). For him to admire Timothy for his commitment is a great compliment, especially coming from Paul. He seems to have more confidence in Timothy than in any of the others who worked with him (1 Timothy 6:11-13).
Paul encouraged Timothy through rough times when leaders in the church in Ephesus were criticizing him and mocking his leadership. Timothy encouraged Paul through his long and difficult times in prison. They both served the church and each other in an unselfish manner. Too often today ministries revolve around the personality of the leader. When a church is built on and around one person, that is not good. Jesus is the only head of the church and shouldn’t share His glory with anyone!
Timothy spent his whole life and ministry working behind the scenes. He was not interested in building Timothy’s kingdom, just Jesus’s kingdom. He invested his life in others and never regretted it. He wasn’t interested in advancement, just in serving where needed.
2 Timothy 4:1-2 In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage —with great patience and careful instruction.
Who do you know who is faithfully committed to serving Jesus like Timothy did? What can you learn from their life?
When others look at you, do they see the same kind of service, humility and Jesus-centered commitment as we see in Timothy?
cto Rev. Dr. JERRY SCHMOYER
Christian Training Organization
Jerry@ChristianTrainingOrganization.org
(India Outreach, Spiritual Warfare, Family Ministries, Counseling, World View)
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