Encouragement

“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” II Timothy 3:12

When I’m looking for encouragement and strength for the day, I rarely read II Timothy 3:12! So the reward for pleasing God is a guarantee that I will face opposition? “Listen, if you want to be the person God has called you to be, you will be persecuted for it.” Is it just me, or does this seem to be the opposite of what the Holy Spirit would inspire Paul to write to a young man (Timothy) just getting established in his life of service for God? However, Jesus did the same thing–“Want to follow Me? Say good bye to your family.” “Coming with Me? Just so you know, I am homeless and destitute.” “Got the commandments down pat? Excellent–give away all your money, and let’s go!”
To us, it would seem like there would have to be more inspirational ways of encouraging potential disciples. Surprisingly, there are not! In fact, Jesus and Paul are giving us the best possible news. Not until we are completely humbled, completely vulnerable and completely helpless, will we experience the fullness of God’s grace. Paul knew this by experience (II Corinthians 12:9). Because of our sinful, selfish tendencies, we cannot understand the sufficiency of Christ until we acknowledge the futility of self. God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). Paul understood this so completely that as he approached the end of His life, he said that what he really wanted was to “share His sufferings.” (Philippians 3:10). Friends–the more we lack, the more He gives. The more we suffer, the more He comforts. In this world, it will be difficult. But take heart–Christ has overcome the world! (John 16:33)

-Pastor Mike