This could be the last epistle by Paul while awaiting his execution, abandoned by all except Luke his faithful follower. He wanted to see his son in the faith, Timothy. Paul encourages Timothy not to be fearful & was made bold by the Holy Spirit (1:7). Paul says, “Timothy, you’ve seen my teachings, conduct, my life, faith, patience, my love, steadfastness, persecution, & my suffering.” See how Paul teaches Timothy?? Classroom? NO! He taught him his real life. Timothy saw all these as trained by Paul. WOW, that's the discipleship goal we need today, Life on Life discipleship!

Finally, Paul says, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.”(4:7) Hope we could all finish the race God has given us. Your race is not my race. We all run a different race & track. We never compete with one another but keep the faith & experience the real presence of God. I hope today, when you see Paul's sufferings in this letter, you'll see the God who loves us with His sacrificial-love through Jesus Christ. May God bless you!