“But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength…”
2 Timothy 4:17
Paul had some problems during his lifetime. On different occasions he had been beaten for preaching the Word, rejected, shipwrecked, and left for dead. Not to mention the nagging “thorn in the flesh” he dealt with constantly. Paul was writing to his protege’, Timothy when he penned the words of today’s verse. This time he had been deserted by friends and fellow ministers, his ministry had been damaged by words and actions of nonbelievers and, he was in jail again. He knew his time on earth was running out.
Paul must have felt defeated at times. He surely had reason to become discouraged or to lose hope. Our problems, trials and circumstances can make us feel the same way at times. We can be overwhelmed with the weight of the troubles we bear. We too may feel beaten down, rejected, weak and alone.
But instead of complaining or giving up, Paul turned to God for strength and help. He knew that God was standing with Him. He felt the strength Jesus gave him, his hope was renewed, his zeal was rekindled and he knew the peace that only God can give.
God can and will give us this same hope, strength and peace when we turn all our cares over to Him. When we are weak, He is strong. When we are unsure, He is certain. When we are afraid, He gives us courage. God has all that we need to get through this life and He stands beside us every moment ready to help.
Thank you, Lord!
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