After a little traveling hiatus, I’m checking back in with all of our wonderful blog readers today. Ready for a conversation with God? It’s something to step into with awe of who God is and with an expectation that he wants to communicate with us. That’s why he gave us Scripture. So let’s open it up and read 2 Timothy 4:1-8. Read with an open invitation to the Holy Spirit to speak to you personally.
With some praise music playing in the background as I read, this text motivates me.
Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season. . . . (K)eep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all of the duties of your ministry. (v. 2, 5)
God’s word to me here is to be faithful to his calling. Timothy was gifted and called to lead the church under his care deeper into the way of Christ. Having been called by God many years ago to the same kind of work, I know that it can be a huge challenge at times. Sometimes you wonder if it’s worth it. The Spirit is telling him and me to follow God’s call. Be consistent. Serve persistently. From one season of life to another, keep living out the calling of God on your life.
You may not have been called to the same kind of service to Christ that I was as a church leader, but you have been called to serve him. If you have been born again, you have been gifted for ministry of some sort. Whatever that is, God is saying, “Carry out that service through the ups and downs of life. Don’t give up. Take a rest when you need to, but keep pursuing what I have called you to.”
It all hinges on the opening thoughts:
In the presence of God and of Christ . . . and in light of his appearing . . . (v. 1)
I hear God saying, “Live fully and in the moment, knowing that I am right here with you. I am present with you now. Don’t ever forget that! And remember that I am coming back for you. I know you long to see me, and while I am not visible now, the day is coming when I will show up in full glory and you will see me with your own eyes. Live in anticipation of that moment! Be ready to meet me. If you stand strong and serve me faithfully, you will feel such joy when you see my face!”
Lord, please guide me with a fresh sense of your calling. I am willing to be used in your Kingdom today and into the future. I'm so amazed by how your Kingdom broke into our world through the coming of your Son, the King of Kings, born in a manger. Please show me what you want me to do in your service. Open the door and I will step through it. Amen.
Great post, Chris! It is very important that we continue to serve God in whatever way he's called us to do. When we are doing what God calls us to do we feel a sense of purpose and joy from whatever that is. Stay on the track that God has called you to and pursue even though the door may not be open just yet. It WILL open when you least expect it. You are so faithful, Chris. God will bless you for that!
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