Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus, To Timothy, a beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 3 I thank God, whom I serve with a pure conscience, as my forefathers did, as without ceasing I remember you in my prayers night and day, 4 greatly desiring to see you, being mindful of your tears, that I may be filled with joy, when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also. Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Dear Suzanne, Rebecca, Anna and Mikayla,
Just some quick thoughts on the beginning of 2nd Timothy. I was first struck with how lightly Paul held on to the things of this world. He is about to have his trial before Nero...it is perhaps just days away and he is in a dank, dark and cold dungeon. Paul is not downcast or depressed. His mind is set on things above. He is writing to encourage and bolster the faith of his son in the faith, Timothy. His love, care and concern for him are evident. It is a book filled with exhortation. Paul lived for the eternal and wanted his son Timothy to, also. Girls, that is my prayer for you...that you would live for the eternal...that each one of you would set your minds and hearts on things above and hold on to this world lightly. It is the only thing that profits both in this world and in the next.
Paul said that he prayed for Timothy ceaselessly night and day. I love you all but I do not pray for you ceaselessly. I am so glad that there is One who does. Hebrews 7:25 tells us this: "Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them." I love knowing that Jesus does not grow weary that He continually bring you before the throne of God. I can rest knowing that His love for you is so much greater than my own. More next time...Lord willing.
Love
Mom who is glad that each of you are in His perfect care...
