THE FAITHFUL LORD AND THE APOSTLE

For the last two days we have seen from 2 Timothy 4, how Paul the apostle was “abandoned” [verses 9-13] and was “harmed” [verses 14-16] by those who claimed to be disciples of the LORD Jesus for a while, but stopped walking with Jesus, for reasons known only to them. 

As Christians, disciples, and as the ministers of God, we surely will encounter every kind of problem from all kinds of people. Many of the times, from “fellow Christians” – as we see from Paul’s experience. Struggles, storms and suffering that the children of God, and the servants of God face, is a well-documented matter.

However the same Paul, continues to write in Timothy 4:17-18, about how the LORD did not abandon him, but stood with him, when everyone, in some way or the other, left him, to fend for himself.* This goes on to prove yet again, that *the LORD is ever so faithful, and that, He will never leave us, nor forsake us.

Paul says, “17 But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. 18 And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!” – 2 Timothy 4:17-18

Reading the above passage, helps us to gain insights, into how the LORD works with us, during trials and tribulations. 
– God will stand with us, “SO THAT” the purposes of God, that He intendeds to be fulfilled through us, are completed. In Paul’s case, preaching of the gospel to the gentiles.
– The LORD will deliver us, if required, from any and every danger – “I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion” and “the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom.”  This proves the love, care, concern for us, and His sovereignty over everything. In Paul’s case, from someone who was powerful and a great orator, and also from any dangers lurking around us.

Paul rightly concludes this passage with “To Him be glory forever and ever.” Amen to that!!! Let us keep our eyes on the LORD, and continue to walk the “Narrow Way” without being discouraged or disheartened by all that is happening in and around us.