-August 17, 2024-
Good morning beloved, happy Saturday,
“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is near” (2 Timothy 4:6).
“The Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Grace be with you. Amen” (2 Timothy 4:22).
Paul wrote two letters to Timothy, the pastor of Ephesus. He knew very well that his days are earth were numbered. He was imprisoned in Rome and the time of his beheading was imminent.
He served the Lord Jesus faithfully until the end. He told Timothy, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). Paul knew where he was going: to heaven to be with the Lord and that he would receive the crown of righteousness. All believers who love His appearing will receive it also.
Throughout his ministry he taught, discipled, and encouraged Timothy to continue in the faith and in the ministry of the Word. His final words were so beautiful, not only to Timothy, but to all the saints.
Paul’s farewell was a benediction, which consisted of two things: God’s presence and His grace. We ourselves need these two essential blessings.
He said, “The Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.” It is important to know our Savior is with us. He promised in Matthew 28:20, “…I am with always, even to the end of the age.” God promised to never leave us nor forsake us. We cannot live without His presence.
Not only do we need His presence, we need His sufficient grace to handle any situation that arises. Life is often like the weather, changeable and uncertain. There are sunny days, cloudy days, rainy days, snowy days, hot days, and cold days. We experience many different storms in our spiritual lives.
Paul often used the phrase, “grace and peace.” Grace is the Greek word, charis, and peace is the Hebrew word shalom. Both give great encouragement to our soul and spirit. For the believer who passes into eternity, we say, “until we meet again.” Heaven is our final destination.
Have a blessed day encouraging others with our words and actions. Stay safe and healthy.
Serving until the Lord calls us home.
Dean
Dean Allen's Daily Devotional 