Paul lets Timothy know that when we stop relying on Christ for our greatest needs we run the risk of losing everything. Some will fall away from the truth as they rely on themselves more than on Christ.

This chapter of Paul's letter to Timothy is all about showing who does what and what qualifies someone to fill a specific role. It's kind of like the job description "qualification" section when you apply for a new role.

It's easy to pray for ourselves and those we love but what about those we don't like or those who are against us? Paul reminds Timothy that these people too need our prayers.

Paul encourages Timothy to hold fast to what he knows and not give in to the ways of the world. Know the truth. Hold to that truth. Teach that truth and live that truth.

Our words have power and so do our relationships. We need to make sure that we carefully monitor our words and understand that our words and our silence can speak volumes.

Paul's final words aren't as comforting as we might hope.

When I am weak, then I am truly strong. It sounds like an oxymoron but when we truly understand it this passage is life changing.

Paul reminds us that if we're trying to one up each other with our activity in the church, he has us beat. So we should really boast not in our accomplishments but rather in our weaknesses.

Paul reminds us of the confidence we have in the gospel when we apply it correctly.

When it comes to generosity, it's far more about heart than amount.