2 Timothy 1:8-18
Reflect
I passed the person next to me in the parking lot. I had the strong sense that I should give her the Gospel of John from my handbag. Really? Voices set in: “She wouldn’t care”, “She would look down on me”, “Would other people see and judge me as religious fanatic?”
Finally I headed back and gave the surprisingly happy girl my gift.
Do you know the feeling of butterflies in your tummy, when it comes to sharing Jesus? Timothy had not just an uneasy feeling, he saw drastic consequences: persecution, beating, imprisonment, death. And Paul writes to him, “Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord…, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God.” (v8)
Paul emphasizes what you are suffering for (v9, 10); you are saved and forgiven, and you get life here and eternally! The gospel, the treasure in us! God does not expect you to stand alone. He promises HIS power, the Holy Spirit.
Apply
Ask God for courage by his Holy Spirt to share the Best News ever!
Remember, you have a win/win situation. Read Matthew 5:11,12. People mock you, you are blessed.
People repent and surrender their life to the reign of Jesus; they are blessed!
Be a Good News bringer to a lost world (Rom. 10:14)!
Annette Faszer
Pray
- Pray through the prayer section in our program.
- Pray for our Congregational Life Pastor, Mike Bartusek and his family.
- Pray for Dave Schneider, our Youth and Worship Pastor and Erin Gibbard, Youth Ministry Associate.
- Pray for our Young Adults Ministry Assistant, Shone Williams.