Three Minute Thoughts

Paul tells us that we don't have a spirit of fear but one of power and love.

We all face trial and struggle but this is one thing worth fighting for! Paul will encourage Timothy to stay true to what he knows to be right. And God will show him the way.

Paul brings the discussion beyond just the leaders in the church to the members, the people who make up the church. He explains how they are to act toward one another and toward their pastor.

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.

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.