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. 2 Timothy 4:17
Athletic people work out on a regular basis to build up the strength and endurance. Working out is for the purpose of being able to do better in the sport that they are in. The process of working out is often very difficult and painful, but in the end is often worth it when they receive the prize for winning the sport.
As Paul finishes his second letter to Timothy, he tells him about some of the struggles he had to endure. Then Paul says that the Lord was right there with him giving him strength so that the gospel message could be preached through him, allowing all Gentiles to hear.
Going through life many people feel as if they are all alone. Being alone, they wonder what their purpose is. The world often focuses only on pleasing self and having no difficulties or pain in any form. Purpose appears to be lost or unattainable when all that is felt is pain and suffering.
It is easy for believers to get caught up with the same feelings of being alone. The world is out to destroy them and break them down. Friends and family often don’t understand and desert them.
While the world may desert the believer, God is still standing right by the believer’s side. God does not leave His children alone and will deliver them from evil.
Being by one’s side, God is able to give the believer strength to keep moving forward with a purpose. That purpose is to spread the gospel message to the world so that all might hear and believe in Jesus.
As you walk through life in this world you may feel alone and wondering why there are so many difficulties and challenges. Keep your faith in God. The Lord is standing right there with you in the midst of the trials of life. He will give you the strength to move forward in His purpose for you on this earth. That purpose is to preach the gospel to this fallen world. There is always one more person who needs to hear the gospel message, and you may be the one to bring it. Speak His word in His strength.
Today I pray that you will know Jesus as your Lord and Savior; that you will know God’s presence in your life; that God will give you the words to speak to be His witness; that God will give you the strength needed to be His witness; and that God will deliver you from all evil.
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This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Insights from Tom
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