DEVOTIONS

MONDAY, JUNE 2ND, 2025 

"PAUL & TIMOTHY"

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, in keeping with the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus, To Timothy, my dear son: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Timothy 1:1-2 

The Apostle Paul meets Timothy during his second missionary journey. Timothy lives in the town of Lystra and is a young follower of Jesus. Timothy’s grandmother, Lois, and mother, Eunice, have trained Timothy in the Scriptures. Paul then takes Timothy under his wing as a protégé. Timothy travels with Paul and is given important spiritual duties, such as serving as Paul’s representative. Timothy later pastors the church in the city of Ephesus. 

The letter of 2 Timothy is Paul’s last letter before his death. Timothy is Paul’s “son in the faith” and someone with whom he shares a deep affection. Paul and Timothy’s relationship is key in the New Testament story. It also shapes our understanding of this text—a passionate letter from a spiritual father to a young, timid protégé. When appropriately read, these words encourage anyone facing discouragement or fear in spiritual struggles. 

Ask God what he desires to do in your heart and life through our study of this letter. As we begin this series, consider reading or listening to 2 Timothy. (An audio reading of 2 Timothy only takes about 10 minutes.) Pray for the grace to understand and apply this book’s truths to your life. 

TUESDAY, JUNE 3RD, 2025 

“SPIRITUAL FRIENDSHIP” 

I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. 2 Timothy 1:3-4 

Paul and Timothy are more than mere acquaintances or work companions. They are spiritual friends. They know each other deeply and care for each other thoroughly. They encourage each other in their gospel work and faith in Jesus. They experience painful lows and spiritual highs. Their friendship develops through trials, victories and shared meaningful work over many years. Paul’s departure is deeply emotional for Timothy. 

Spiritual friendships encourage and challenge one another to grow and deepen their relationship with Jesus. These friendships are a tremendous gift. Deep, spiritual friendships often result when people take Christian community to the next level. Two members from a small group decide to meet for deeper conversations and accountability. Other Christians in our life can become deep meaningful spiritual friends. Wherever these friendships start, they need ongoing intentionality to cultivate further intimacy and depth of relationship. 

Consider your current relationships and who could be a spiritual friend. Ask God to reveal someone or bring someone new into your life. Then, take steps to invest in this relationship. Maybe invite them to meet for coffee to share your Christian journeys together. If you already have deep, spiritual friendships, thank God for them and send a text today thanking them for their friendship. 

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4TH, 2025 

“SPIRITUAL INFLUENCE” 

I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 2 Timothy 1:5 

Timothy is already well-grounded in the faith when he meets Paul. Paul notes later in this letter that Timothy has been taught the Scriptures “from infancy” (2 Timothy 3:15). Timothy is nurtured in God’s Word by his mother, Eunice, and grandmother, Lois, from the earliest moments of his life. Through Timothy, the spiritual heritage of these women paints the pages of Scripture and has left a lasting mark on church history. 

Lois and Eunice’s examples reveal the importance of spiritual formation in the home and from one generation to another. God has given us the responsibility of leaving a legacy in the hearts and lives of our children and grandchildren. As parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and friends live godly lives and share how to follow Jesus, the next generation can grow to follow him, too. The way of Jesus is both caught by example and taught through intentional conversations, church attendance and mentoring those in our home, family, or sphere of influence. 

Spend time journaling about who you can spiritually invest in from the next generation. This may include your children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews or neighborhood kids. Write their names down. Pray over them and ask God for wisdom. Then, take steps to invest in their spiritual development. 

THURSDAY, JUNE 5TH, 2025 

“INADEQUACY” 

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 

Timothy journeys with Paul and witnesses much of the hardship Paul faces in ministry. Timothy also begins to face hardship and resistance in his ministry. As a young pastor, Timothy is likely experiencing feelings of inadequacy and timidity. Like many others who step into roles of service or leadership, Timothy potentially questions his ability for the work God has given him. 

The Bible provides many examples of God’s people feeling uncertain or unconfident about their God-given abilities or tasks. Moses questions God after being called to lead Israel: “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” (Exodus 3:11). When we step into spiritual service or leadership, we may feel inadequate, fearful or weak at times as well. We, too, may wonder, “Who am I to lead these people?” Scripture reveals it’s not about our ability, knowledge or wisdom. Instead, God’s power accomplishes his work through the lives of finite and often fickle servants. He uses imperfect but willing (and growing) people to achieve great work in the lives of others. 

One of the ways God grows us in confidence in him and his calling on our lives is through intentional study of His word. Choose one story of God working through an imperfect person to accomplish His work and reflect on it this week. 

FRIDAY, JUNE 6TH, 2025 

FAN THE FLAME

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:6-7 

Timothy is tempted to look at his abilities (or lack thereof) and doubt God’s work can be accomplished. Paul, however, reminds Timothy to make a Godward turn. Rather than focusing on his limitations, he is to fan into flame the gift God gave him. He must remember God is at work to give him courage and power for the work ahead.  Likewise, we must turn toward God in our spiritual duties and service. God is at work. He is the one who gives us spiritual strength, courage, and power. He provides spiritual gifts and transforms lives. Rather than focusing on our weaknesses and limitations, we can focus on him. He calls and gifts each of us to serve. We can use our gifts knowing God is with us and enabling us to accomplish the work he desires for us to do. 

Spiritual intimacy and impact are connected at the hip. In other words, our walk with God (intimacy) is related to our spiritual impact on others. When we are spiritually healthy, engaging in spiritual practices and using our gifts to serve others, God does his great work in and through us. 

Evaluate your spiritual health. Is there a practice you need to begin, renew or refresh to deepen your intimacy with God as you serve others?  

MONDAY, JUNE 9, 2025

DO NOT BE ASHAMED 

So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. 2 Timothy 1:8 

Paul admonishes Timothy repeatedly not to be ashamed of him or the gospel message. Timothy needs this encouragement because many situations could cause shame. People mock Christians because their God was executed on a Roman cross. Timothy’s mentor, Paul, sits in chains in a Roman jail, awaiting a trial for following Jesus. Being a Christian holds no advantages. Believers suffer, and they struggle to not become ashamed of their faith. Paul urges Timothy to stand firm and to avoid joining the number of the ashamed. 

We need Paul’s encouragement to embrace being a follower of Jesus and not be ashamed of the gospel as it becomes less and less popular in our culture. We may be misunderstood or labeled “narrow-minded” for following Jesus. Some of us may be rejected at work for what we believe. Others may have friends walk away because of their faith. Whatever we encounter, the same God who gave Paul and Timothy strength to not be ashamed of him is with us, too. 

Pray for strength and grace to remain true to the gospel in situations that tempt you to be ashamed of Jesus. “God, I desire to follow you with your strength and perseverance. Help me stay true to the gospel of Jesus in this situation ________________. Amen.” 

TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 2025

WHAT IS THE GOSPEL 

He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. 2 Timothy 1:9a 

Paul challenges Timothy not to be ashamed but willing to suffer for Jesus for one reason—the gospel. He reminds Timothy that they’ve been rescued completely through grace and given real, true life. Paul never gets over the wonder of this radically transformative news. Paul lives in complete amazement that God found and rescued him: dead in transgressions and sins, moved from death to life only because of God’s grace. Paul experiences Jesus as “the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25). Paul urges Timothy never to abandon this message of rescue, grace and life. 

Our world still desperately needs this “death-to-life” gospel message. We, like Paul, “were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy” (Titus 3:3-5a). Recognizing the incredible nature of the gospel helps us not be ashamed of it. 

If you have not yet placed your faith and trust in Jesus for the forgiveness of your sin, you can do so today by admitting your need for Jesus’s forgiveness and inviting him into your life.  

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11, 2025

IT’S ABOUT JESUS 

He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. 2 Timothy 1:9a 

Paul is chained in a Roman prison as he writes to Timothy. The authorities feed him just enough to keep him alive. Paul depends on the generosity of friends for anything beyond basic survival. The cell is numbingly cold in winter and blisteringly hot in the summer. Paul receives few visitors and suffers physically and emotionally. But he is not ashamed because he knows who he suffers for—Jesus. He knows Jesus suffered for him, so he’s willing to suffer for Jesus. Paul even holds suffering as a goal. He writes in another letter: “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead” (Philippians 3:10-11). 

At its core, Christianity is trusting in someone. Our faith centers on Jesus. The more we know Jesus, the stronger our relationship with him grows, the more we will remain steadfast. Knowing Jesus—his character, mission, teachings and sufferings—provides us with his strength through the Holy Spirit to endure any suffering that following Jesus may bring. The more we get to know him, the more we know his heart for us, and our love for him deepens. 

Reflect on your understanding of Jesus. How often do your thoughts, attention and affection turn to Jesus during the day? How has your relationship with him matured over time? Journal your answers to these questions. Then pray for the Spirit’s wisdom and strength to deepen your love for and understanding of who Jesus is. 

THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025

KEEP & GUARD

Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us. 2 Timothy 1:14 

Paul gives Timothy two commands. Timothy is to “keep” and “guard.” First, he is to “keep” the teaching he’s received from Paul at the center of his life. Second, he’s to “guard” what he’s been taught through the work of the Holy Spirit. These two commands are connected. One is about ensuring he has a proper understanding of what God has taught, and the other is about allowing the Holy Spirit to help him guard what he received. 

Keeping to sound teaching means we need to study God’s Word and listen to good teaching regularly. We do these things through our personal study of the Bible and attending weekend services. The Holy Spirit works through the Word to remind us of what we have learned. We grow to rely on the Spirit as we invite the Spirit to help us. As we commit to these practices of studying the Bible, listening to sound teaching and inviting the Spirit to speak, we find strength to stand firm amid cultural pressure and remain grounded in God’s Word and the gospel. 

Commit to spending time with God, reading the Bible and sitting under the teaching of our pastors on Sundays. Write up a plan for staying committed to these practices as the weather gets warmer and other activities call for your attention. Share your commitment with a trusted friend and check in with each other in the coming months. 

FRIDAY, JUNE 13, 2025

TWO PATHS 

You know that everyone in the province of Asia has deserted me, including Phygelus and Hermogenes. May the Lord show mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains. 2 Timothy 1:15-16 

Paul encourages Timothy not to be ashamed and to keep his relationship with God. It’s an example of one Christian encouraging and challenging another inside a spiritual friendship. Paul ends this section by showing Timothy examples of two paths—disloyalty and loyalty. Many have abandoned Paul. Some have stuck with him. Maybe Onesiphorus’s choice to stick with Paul will encourage Timothy to do the same. 

The choice is the same for us today. We’ll either have a relationship with Jesus that will sustain us through times of suffering or one that won’t sustain us when cultural pressures try to make us ashamed. The tendency to deconstruct our faith or walk away because of societal pressures is significant and only getting stronger. The key to having a strong relationship with Jesus is what we looked at earlier this week about knowing the gospel and doing what is necessary to have a vibrant relationship with Jesus. 

Look up and Worship with the song “Praise.” Use these lyrics to help you stay on the correct path and give you reasons not to be ashamed, “I’ll praise ‘cause you’re sovereign…Praise ‘cause you rose and defeated the grave.” Focus your thoughts and attention on the God who is faithful, true and great. 

MONDAY, JUNE 16TH 2025 

FOUR GENERATIONS 

And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. 2 Timothy 2:2 

Paul writes a letter to young Timothy, encouraging him to maintain the faith and multiply that faith in the lives of others. Paul has mentored Timothy to multiply disciples. Timothy has traveled around the Mediterranean world with Paul hearing his sermons and witnessing the consistent follow-up and teaching to those who responded to the gospel and believed. Paul passes on what he knows to Timothy, who passes it on to those he teaches, who then pass it on to others. That is four generations of tellers and teachers. 

This multiplication method is what God uses to spread the good news of the gospel. Jesus provides the first example. He teaches and trains his disciples and then commissions them to go teach and train others. This commission and challenge are for us today, too. One generation of Jesus’s followers is to pass along the good news and train the next generation to live out their faith. This generation shares the good news with the next, and so on. Our spiritual growth should overflow and impact those around us. 

Who is God calling you to share Jesus with? Who can you help grow in faith? Pray and ask God to show you the next step. Write in your journal any names God brings to mind. Pray for those people and then begin investing in their spiritual growth. It could be sharing the gospel, inviting them to church or meeting one-on-one for conversation to talk about the Bible. 

TUESDAY, JUNE 17TH 2025 

SOLDIER 

No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer.    2 Timothy 2:4 

Paul tells Timothy to multiply the number of Jesus’s followers by using the example of a soldier. Soldiers play a key role in holding the Roman Empire together. They are keenly refined and trained representatives of the emperor’s power—totally focused on doing their job. They don’t get entangled in civilian affairs but stay focused on their orders. They are willing to suffer to gain the approval and appreciation of their commanding officer. This example encourages Timothy to stay focused on his calling from God, which is to share what he has learned with those around him and encourage their spiritual growth so they can multiply faith in the lives of others, too. 

The example of the soldier is significant for us because our goal should also be to stay focused on God. We please him by staying committed to his purpose. It’s very easy to get distracted by our latest remodeling project, our kids’ sports, travel plans, social media, golf league or book club. These things aren’t necessarily bad, but they can entangle and distract us from pursuing God and what he desires for us. We should make sure to take time for God and things that will last for eternity. 

Identify some of the good things in your life that have the potential to distract you from being intentional in your relationship with God. How can you keep those things in their proper place, so you have time to pursue God and his purpose for you? To get further insight, discuss these things with a christian friend. 

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18TH 2025 

ATHLETE 

Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules. 2 Timothy 2:5 

As Paul continues to urge Timothy to multiply Jesus’s disciples, he turns to the image of an athlete. Athletes train and work hard but can only win when abiding by the rules of their sport. Paul seems to urge Timothy to do the work of Jesus according to the way of Jesus. Jesus taught his followers that they are to love God and love others.  Sharing Jesus’s message and helping others grow reflects Jesus’s love and his character of grace and truth (John 1:14). 

The same is true for us. We can get caught up in doing the work of Jesus but neglect the way of Jesus. Condemnation and harsh correction can turn people away from the gospel, especially when we have not taken the time to invest in authentic, loving relationships. We can only speak truth to others if we have earned their trust. We earn trust when we display a Christlike character and spend meaningful time with people. When we love like Jesus did, we offer something different than the rest of the world. Our faith becomes irresistible and contagious to those around us. A life ruled by Christ’s love results in the ultimate victory of strengthening others in faith and inspiring faith that spreads through generations. 

Ask God to grow your character to be more and more like Jesus. Consider the Fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Identify one that you would like God to grow in you. Ask for his help to share that fruit in your interactions this week. 

THURSDAY, JUNE 19TH 2025 

FARMER  

The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. 2 Timothy 2:6 

Paul gives Timothy a third illustration as he teaches him to multiply disciples of Jesus. Timothy should work hard like a farmer would. Without machines, farming entails long, hot days of plowing, planting, weeding and harvesting by hand. Farming requires commitment, patience and trust in God. The work was hard, but the reward was great. Long hours of perspiration led to harvested grain and bread on the table. Paul knows that if Timothy perseveres with farmer-like commitment, patience and trust, there will be a harvest of Jesus followers who can pass along what they know to others. 

The same is true for us. Investing in the lives of others is hard work that requires patience, trust in God and commitment. It requires significant patience and love to lead a small group of sixth-grade boys until they graduate from high school. Leading a women’s group requires the hard work of Bible study preparation and sometimes stepping into tough situations. Being a mentor means showing up week after week. Committing to teaching your kids about Jesus requires the consistency of Bible stories, conversations and prayer every night. But Paul teaches, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). We work and trust, and God grows the harvest. 

YouTube and listen to the song “Finished Work of Christ.” Thank God for the finished work of Jesus and for opportunities to help others grow to know him too. “So, I’ll sing Your praise with all of my heart; you buried my past so my future could start.” 

FRIDAY, JUNE 20TH 2025  

REFLECT  

Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this. 2 Timothy 2:7 

Paul tells Timothy to multiply followers of Jesus by entrusting what he’s learned to reliable people who will teach others. To emphasize his point, he gives three examples from their culture: a soldier, an athlete and a farmer. Each of these professions requires discipline and focus to reach their goals of victory in battle, receiving the crown and reaping the harvest. Then Paul says something unexpected—he tells Timothy to reflect. Paul wants Timothy to give God time and space to show him what’s next. Reflection is essential to understanding spiritual multiplication. 

Reflection is a practice that Christians have incorporated into their time with God for centuries and is beneficial for us. Reflection involves two parts. The first is slowing down in God’s presence and listening. This can include reading a Bible passage a few times slowly and prayerfully, thinking about each verse. It could be thinking and praying about growing in Christlikeness, such as humility, forgiveness or generosity. It might be inviting God to reveal what he has for us. Our part always includes God’s Word. God’s part is to impress upon us things we may not think about on our own, convict and guide us. The most important aspect of reflection is slowing down and just being with God. 

How can you make reflection a regular part of your chair time with God? Spend a few minutes asking God to show you how. Slow down, tune out distractions and be quiet so he can impress on you what he wants you to do. 

MONDAY, JUNE 23, 2025 

“FINDING JESUS IN THE STORY OF DAVID” 

Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.  2 Samuel 7:16 

The story of David underscores the fact that Jesus saving us from our sins was always God’s plan… 

Shepherd. David’s is a humble shepherd from an ordinary family. Following God’s directions, the prophet Samuel arrives to anoint the next king. David’s family doesn’t even call him inside. They do not think David could be the Lord’s chosen one (1 Samuel 16:11). Similarly, Jesus is born into a humble family who does not always recognize him as the Lord’s chosen one (John 7:5). David’s life as a shepherd foreshadows Jesus. Jesus even refers to himself as the good shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep (John 10:11). 

Son of David. David wants to build a house for God, but God turns the situation around and instead builds a house through David. This promise points to a son who will build a house for God’s name and whose kingdom will endure forever. While Solomon later builds the temple, Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of this promise (2 Samuel 7:13). Jesus comes from the line of David (Matthew 1:1). Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of David,” and many others also assign him this title (Mark 12:35, Matthew 21:9). Jesus is the son who proclaims God’s name and builds an eternal kingdom. 

Warrior King. Scripture describes David as a warrior king. His kingship is a type that represents Jesus’s complete victory over God’s enemies. He is a man of prayer and “after God’s own heart” (Acts 13:22). His dependence on the Lord foreshadows the intimacy of Jesus and the Father. 

David’s life provides rich pictures of Jesus’s coming. 

TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2025

“AGAINST THE FLOW” 

Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.” 2 Timothy 2:19 

Paul deliberately places Timothy in a strategic location. Ephesus is one of the largest and most significant cities in the Roman Empire. It’s also an incredibly religious city. About 600 years before, a massive temple to Artemis was constructed. It still dominates city life during Timothy’s time. Believers in Ephesus have their work cut out for them. Paul reminds Timothy that he has to go against the flow. The culture isn’t going to point people to Christianity. What’s even more challenging are false teachers inside the church itself. Timothy needs to teach the church the truth. Paul’s instructions are clear. Timothy is to correctly handle the Word, gently instruct those who disagree and make sure the people in his church are ready for God to use them. 

There’s good news and bad news for us here. The bad news is that, like Timothy, we’re going to have to go against the flow. Our culture isn’t going to point us to Jesus. There are even voices in the greater Christian community that might lead us the wrong way. The good news is that we aren’t alone, and we’re not the first to face such challenges. Christians have been going against the flow since the church began. It’s possible. We can do it. 

Pray for courage and strength to go with God and against the flow. Let’s Listen and worship together with “Singing in the Victory.” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXH60qrJHus) We can find the strength and courage to go against the flow when we remember the victory Jesus won for us.  

  WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 

“CORRECTLY HANDLE THE WORD” 

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 

Paul instructs Timothy by using the example of a hard worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed. When they do good work, workers can step away from a job feeling good about all they have accomplished. For Timothy, a key part of being a good worker includes correctly handling the Word of God. It’s like there is a way to handle Scripture that is approved and another that is not. Paul tells Timothy to do it the right way. 

The way we handle Scripture is critical. We regularly encounter beliefs and values that could pull us away from what Scripture teaches. Correctly handling the Bible means putting in the work to know what it says and means. Studying the Bible isn’t always easy, but it is vital for our faith. This includes reading the Bible on our own and learning where to go to help us understand what we’re reading. When we study the Bible, we invite Scripture to inform our feelings and beliefs. Our culture tells us it should be the other way. Culture says our feelings and beliefs should be the key to interpreting Scripture.  Commit yourself to studying God’s Word. If you feel like you need help, consider who in your life seems to study the Bible well and ask them to teach you.  

THURSDAY, JUNE 26TH  

“GENTLY INSTRUCT” 

And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 2 Timothy 2:24 

God’s servants should be kind. That’s what Paul writes to Timothy regarding arguments in the church. Paul frames the conversation through the lens of a servant. If Timothy can remember he is God’s servant and that it’s about what God wants to do, he can be kind, gentle and hopeful. Paul reminds Timothy that God is the one who brings repentance. Timothy has a role to play— it’s to be kind and gentle. He’s to leave the rest to God. Its gentleness motivated by hope. 

The way of Jesus is the way of a servant, but our culture frowns on servanthood. Our debates often forsake kindness or gentleness. We tend to focus only on being right. But it’s possible to be right and completely wrong in how we are right. Our posture matters as we engage people who don’t believe or live the way we do. We must see ourselves as God’s servants. A posture of servanthood leads to kindness and gentleness. It helps us remember the other person is someone God loves and created in his image. We can take a breath and pray to ask God to help us when we feel like we may be headed toward being quarrelsome or unkind. It’s not abandoning truth but being gentle in how we present it because we have hope that God is doing something in them. 

Grab your journal and write down topics or people who cause you to struggle with kindness and gentleness. Note a few reasons for these struggles. Write a prayer asking God to help you remember you are his servant and are called to be kind, gentle and hopeful in those situations. 

FRIDAY, JUNE 27TH  

“CLEANSE YOURSELF"

Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work. 2 Timothy 2:21 

Paul’s teaching is so practical. He instructs Timothy by using dishes as a tangible example. It’s about whether something is for a special purpose or for common use. Paul is telling Timothy that God wants his followers to be people whom God can use for special purposes. But to do that, Paul gives some instructions. Paul uses the image of cleansing dirty dishes. He’s saying there is effort involved in following Jesus. It requires a commitment. 

God wants to use us, too. He created us to be part of something bigger. In today’s passage, there are practical ways to prepare ourselves for God to use us. The first is to flee, getting away from the things we shouldn’t be doing. The second is to pursue. This means seeking a relationship with Jesus and seeking the things that help us grow as followers of Jesus. The third is to do life with others. This means finding people who have the same goals as you and who will encourage you to follow Jesus. We could sum up following Jesus with these ideas. Following Jesus requires us to flee and pursue and to do this with other believers. 

Reflect on flee, pursue and with others. Is there something you need to flee or pursue? Have you found a connection with other followers of Jesus?  

 MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2025 

INFLUENCES 

“But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it.” 2 Timothy 3:14 

The Apostle Paul writes to Timothy, a young leader in the early church. Paul mentors Timothy in ministry and drafts this letter to help Timothy as he leads the church in Ephesus. This section of the letter reveals those who have positively influenced Timothy’s spiritual growth, as well as other influences Paul warns Timothy to avoid. He encourages Timothy to stay away from destructive influences and remember the truths taught to him by Paul and Timothy’s family. 

This week we will look at both the people who influence us and the type of influence God desires us to be for others. We will ask ourselves some important questions: Who do we want to be? Who are we becoming? How are we influencing those around us? As we do, we will see that Paul has incredible words of encouragement and challenge for us. Whether we realize it or not, we are both influenced by others and influencing others. 

As you begin this week, pray for openness. Ask God to reveal who is influencing you. Ask him for discernment about whether they are pointing you toward or away from Christ. Finally, ask him to help you see how you influence others. End your prayer by thanking him for his grace despite your shortcomings and ask him to help you to grow. 

TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2025 

DESTRUCTIVE INFLUENCE 

People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God. 2 Timothy 3:2-4 

Paul describes how people will live in the “last days.” Paul means the time between Jesus’s life on earth and his future return. He says that in these last days, “People will be lovers of themselves.” He roots a series of negative character traits in this one characteristic—loving oneself. Paul warns Timothy to be careful about such people and not to be influenced by them.  

Paul’s words to Timothy are important for us today, too. We may see ourselves somewhere in Paul’s list in 2 Timothy 3:2-4.    If we live for ourselves, we will become a destructive influence on those around us. Some of us might be more concerned about climbing the social or corporate ladder than being a good friend or treating our coworkers well. For others, we may be more concerned about pursuing our desires than being faithful to the people and places God called us to. Instead, Paul encourages us to be people who love God and to avoid becoming like those who are lovers of themselves. 

Reflect on the list in 2 Timothy 3:2-4. Do you see yourself in it? Or are there people in your life whose self-focus could be destructive to your spiritual growth? How can you exercise caution around them? Invite God to help you identify opportunities for growth in your life and for wisdom about how to create healthy relationships with those whose influence could be destructive. 

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2025 

GOSPEL INFLUENCE 

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17 

Paul constantly preaches and writes about Jesus and the gospel. He teaches that all have sinned and are alienated from God. Yet, Jesus died in humanity’s place to pay the penalty for sin. What’s more, to all who trust in him, Jesus gives his righteousness before God. Paul wants his readers to understand this and root their lives in this new reality and identity. This new identity should change everything and empower them to live in a new way. 

The same is true today. The gospel holds the power to completely transform everything about us. Only the gospel could transform us from chasing after our own desires and hurting others along the way into a flourishing influence that builds others up. God wants us to influence others by giving them a taste of God’s grace, hope, peace and love as they interact with us. This kind of transformation does not happen by simply trying harder or doing more. It’s about returning again and again to what Jesus has done for us and fundamentally being transformed by his love and sacrifice through the power of the Holy Spirit. 

Reflect on the role of the gospel in your life. Consider if there is a step you need to take to root yourself more in the gospel.   If you have never accepted the gift of Christ’s death on your behalf, reach out to us we would love to talk with you. 

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2025 

PAUL, TIMOTHY, & INFLUENCE

You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance. 2 Timothy 3:10 

Paul and Timothy know each other well. They spent a lot of time ministering together and Paul mentors Timothy in his faith and ministry. Paul invests in, teaches and trusts Timothy with significant responsibilities. Timothy knows how the gospel transformed Paul and how sincerely he follows God. So, in this letter, Paul urges Timothy to follow his example. To remember what Paul went through, but to focus on the gospel and following God rather than pursuing his own desires. 

Paul was a significant influence in Timothy’s spiritual development. We can all use a Paul in our lives, a spiritual mentor who can help us to grow. Our mentors will not be perfect, but they have learned some things as they anchored themselves in the Gospel. We should also identify people who can be a Timothy in our lives. Someone we can invest in, encourage, and walk alongside. Not because we are perfect, but because we have learned a few things as we pursue a deep relationship with Jesus, and we can help them do the same. 

Pray about who could be a Paul in your life. Then consider whether there is someone in your small group, someone who has influenced you in the past, or someone whose spiritual life you would like to emulate and reach out to them to start a conversation. Then pray about a Timothy. Could you help someone take important steps of faith? Ask God to reveal what a good first step is for growing that relationship. 

  FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2025 

FAMILY INFLUENCE 

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14-15 

Paul reminds Timothy that he has been taught the Scriptures from his youth. Earlier in the letter, he even points out the sincere faith and influence of his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice (1 Timothy 1:5). Timothy’s mother and grandmother laid a spiritual foundation in his life. Eventually, Timothy grew to become a strong leader in the church. It all started with his family and the foundation they laid for him. 

Family members have an incredible opportunity for spiritual influence. Moms, dads, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins can have a major impact on the spiritual development of their families. The challenge for us is whether we will be intentional with the influence we have. While our actions are not a guarantee, our influence could help lay a foundation for future faith. God used Eunice and Lois in Timothy’s life, and he can use us in the lives of our loved ones, too. 

Evaluate your influence on your family. What is one thing you could do to be more intentional in your spiritual influence?   It might be with children in your home, adult children, or other family members. Ask God to help you grow your spiritual influence. 

 MONDAY, JULY 7, 2025

 THE SACRED TRUST 

But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.    2 Timothy 4:5 

Paul sits in prison. He knows his days are few and that this letter is his last opportunity to teach Timothy. So, Paul writes with urgency and passion. He pleads with Timothy to stay faithful to Jesus and the gospel message. Christianity is only thirty-five years old and easily distorted by people who want to turn it into something else. Yet Christianity has grown enough for the Emperor to blame it for Rome’s disastrous fire. Paul’s greatest concern is Christianity’s future. Will the spread of the message pass with Paul? He charges Timothy with a sacred trust: keep sharing the gospel message no matter what happens or how hard it may be. 

Last words carry enormous weight. They offer a glimpse into what matters most to someone. We should pay attention to Paul’s words to Timothy about the priority of the gospel and the importance of this message. It’s still urgent and necessary for us to spread the gospel to the next generation of believers. This week, we will see that our world faces many of the same challenges Timothy and his generation faced. We, too, will find the same charge for our lives and hope for the future. When we fulfill our calling to share the message of Jesus, we find God grants us perseverance, courage and hope for anything we encounter. 

What would you say if you knew you had a short time left to share your faith with people coming after you? Spend time journaling about your faith in Jesus and why it matters. Consider the essential things about faith you want to pass along to someone else. 

TUESDAY, JULY 8, 2025

 GOSPEL MESSAGE 

Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 2 Timothy 4:2 

Paul spends thirty years sharing the gospel message. Now, he charges Timothy to preach the same message. In another letter, Paul shares with the church at Corinth, “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). The truth that Jesus took people’s place and came to rescue humanity from their sins requires a response. All who believe God raised Jesus from the dead and receive his gift of salvation by faith will be saved. It’s not about people reaching up to God but God coming down to reach people.  

When we believe in and receive Jesus, we receive the call to be a gospel sharer. A faith that is alive is a faith shared with others. Timothy had a unique opportunity to preach the gospel as a pastor. We each have a unique sphere of influence to share this life-changing message, too. Wherever we are, we are called to share the gospel by how we live our lives and in our conversations with family, friends and acquaintances.  Think through your circles of influence, including your immediate family, extended family, co-workers, neighbors, acquaintances and people you encounter in the community. Write down two or three names of people in those circles who don’t know Jesus. Pray for them to come to know Jesus and for God to give you opportunities to share the gospel with them. 

WEDNESDAY, JULY 9,2025

HEAVY RESISTANCE 

For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 2 Timothy 4:3 

Paul warns Timothy to expect resistance to the gospel and its effects. Paul knows the most significant resistance won’t come from culture. Instead, the greatest resistance comes from the hearts of people within the church. Paul says plenty of teachers are willing to avoid the truth and share what people’s “itching ears” want to hear (2 Timothy 4:3). Paul challenges Timothy to take a different path and teach the truth of the gospel, even when it isn’t popular. 

Part of the human condition is desiring to be told what we want to hear. We want to hear that the cancer will just go away, not that God will grant us the grace to endure. We want to hear that God will bless us and we will be financially secure rather than hearing that God is sufficient to meet our needs. We want to hear it’s okay to hold a grudge and remain bitter rather than forgive as Christ forgave us. But God calls us, through his power, to surrender our desires to him. In doing so, we find he has a full, abundant life for us (John 10:10). 

Ask God to reveal when you don’t want to hear him. Confess anything he reveals. “God, I admit that I sometimes resist you when_________. Please forgive me. Open my ears to hear what you say, and help me live your way, not mine.” 

THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025

FINISH LINE 

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7 

Paul overflows with hope as he nears the end of his life. His confidence rests in Jesus’s future return. Paul knows his life matters and that he has fought the good fight—the right fight. He has been faithful to Jesus and leveraged every situation—including multiple imprisonments, beatings and countless hardships—to advance the gospel. Now, he challenges Timothy to do the same. Paul urges Timothy to finish his race and stay faithful to the gospel. 

God has given each of us a race to run. He calls us to serve him and share the gospel throughout our lives. Many things pull at our attention. We can easily get distracted and spend our lives on fights or activities that don’t really matter. Our day-to-day lives can get caught up in running from activity to activity, paying the bills and trying to survive. However, God calls us to stay faithful to Jesus in it all. We can remain connected to Jesus through prayer, pausing to remember him throughout the day and asking for the power of the Holy Spirit to fill us during every activity. Every situation can become an opportunity to advance the message of Jesus by how we live and speak, even in our hardships. 

Prayerfully consider what it looks like to be faithful to Jesus and the gospel in your everyday situations and challenges. As you pray, worship with the song “Build my Life.” Make these lyrics your prayer, “I will build my life upon your love…I will put my trust in you alone.” 

FRIDAY, JULY 11, 2025

THE LORD’S RETURN 

Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.  2 Timothy 4:8 

Paul longs for Christ’s return. He looks forward to being with Jesus in heaven and the day Jesus returns to earth to fully establish God’s kingdom. Paul knows one day, Jesus will restore and heal all that is broken. Paul spends his life sharing the good news of Jesus and, by doing so, participates in building God’s kingdom here and now through one changed life at a time. Paul also knows that Jesus has promised recognition and reward for those who remain faithful to him. 

Throughout the New Testament, the authors anticipate the day Jesus returns and puts to right all that sin has undone. In the book of Revelation, God gives the Apostle John a vision of what the restored world will look like under Jesus’s reign. Jesus ends John’s vision with a promise to return soon. John cries, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20). We, too, are called to long for Jesus’s return and live in light of his coming. It’s not about earning salvation but living out of gratitude for what Jesus has done. When our hearts are transformed by Jesus, we long for his return and desire to run our race in a manner that brings his kingdom here and now. 

Spend time reflecting on what a restored earth will look like. Linger on these thoughts. Then, spend time praying for Jesus’s return. Ask him to help you live with longing for his return. Bring your challenges and heartaches to Jesus, and echo John’s prayer, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20). 

MONDAY, JULY 14, 2025 

DON’T GIVE UP 

Do your best to come to me quickly, for Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. 2 Timothy 4:9-10 

Demas’s departure is a significant loss to Paul. Demas was not just a run-of-the-mill member of Paul’s church-planting team. Paul relied on him. In Colossians, Paul describes Demas as a “dear friend” (Colossians 4:14). But now, this dear friend “deserted” him, a military term that means to abandon your post. This desertion hurts Paul. Abandoned by Demas, Paul becomes isolated in a Roman prison, awaiting a trial that will lead to his execution. Paul grieves the loss of a valuable member of his team. Mr. Reliable became Mr. Unreliable. 

It’s likely we’ve experienced a loss like this too. These losses happen all too frequently, and they are always painful. A relationship heading for marriage suddenly ends. Pain-filled notes follow the wedding invitations. A business partner decides he is no longer interested in supporting the business. The operating budget is cut in half. The team’s starting shortstop walks away just days before the state tournament. Dreams of a championship are crushed. While these losses hurt, pain doesn’t mean we give up on everyone. We grieve, but we also continue to invest in relationships. God created us for relationships, even though some will result in pain and disappointment. We need to keep loving others and investing in the relationships God brings to us. 

If you’re experiencing a Demas-like loss, make sure you grieve the loss. Do not ignore it. One way to grieve is by turning to God in lament. Lament is an honest and painful prayer that states exactly how we feel and asks God for help. Laments also end with trust. After grieving and lamenting, entrust the relationship to God, knowing that he is in the business of restoration. 

TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2025 

RELATIONSHIP RESTORED 

Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry. 2 Timothy 4:11 

Paul did not always describe Mark as “helpful” to his ministry. In Acts 15:36-41, Mark abandons Paul and his missionary team, which leads to Paul and Barnabas separating. Barnabas wanted Mark to rejoin them, but Paul wanted nothing to do with someone who walked away from the ministry. The pain of Mark’s decision to leave is too much for Paul to overcome. So, Barnabas and Mark go one way, Paul and Silas go another. But now, even after this pain and disappointment, Paul wants Timothy to bring Mark to him. Restoration has occurred. How? Three things happened: time passed, Mark matured, and Paul forgave. 

These are three important elements of how God restores a relationship. “Time passed” means that restoration often takes time. We cannot expect restoration to happen quickly. “Mark matured” means that people can, in fact, change. They aren’t like they were in high school. They also can’t be defined by one careless action or word. “Paul forgave” means the injured party bears the cost and pain of the wrong done. When all three of these are present, restoration has a good chance of success. 

Is there someone you could pray about reconciling with, someone you may have written off? Open your heart to the possibility of reconciliation through this prayer: “Heavenly Father, I confess my heart has hardened toward _____________. Release me from feelings of anger and resentment. Give me eyes that see them as you do. When the time is right, allow my heart to be open to forgiveness and reconciliation. Amen.” 

WEDNESDAY, JULY 16,2025 

LET GOD REPAY 

Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done. 2 Timothy 4:14 

Alexander the metalworker was more than just against Paul and his message. Somehow, Alexander hurt Paul so painfully that Paul thinks it is necessary to warn Timothy. He tells Timothy to stay away from him and to be “on his guard” whenever he is around. Alexander is one bad dude. Paul doesn’t tell Timothy to take vengeance against him. Instead, he tells Timothy to let God take care of Alexander. Paul’s instruction matches what he says in Romans 12:19, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written [in Deuteronomy 32:35]: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay.’” 

There are two things we need to note here. First, there are people we need to stay away from and love from afar because they can be hurtful. Second, we can give these people to the Lord when they hurt us. We don’t have to get even on our own. Taking this posture requires trusting God to handle it. It’s not our problem to fix. It’s God’s job to make sure it is taken care of. Because he is the all-knowing and all-wise God, we can trust he will. 

Has someone done something to you that you need to release to God? A situation you need to trust God to take care of? Pray a prayer like this one: “Father, I have held on to feelings of vengeance against ___________ for too long. I pray for your Spirit to help me turn this situation over to you to have justice done. Amen.” 

THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2025 

JESUS 

At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. 2 Timothy 4:16-17 

What Paul describes as his “first defense” is probably a preliminary hearing to his upcoming trial. This hearing, to determine if the charges have merit, saw no one stand beside Paul and speak on his behalf. When the court asks for witnesses, there is complete silence. It’s not just that people are running late; no one is coming. But Paul knows that to stand in defense of someone accused of a capital offense in Rome is risky. As a result, he does not hold their absence against them. Regardless, Paul is not alone. Jesus is there with him, giving him the strength he needs in this perilous situation. He also helps Paul proclaim “the message” of the salvation Jesus offers.  

As God was with Paul in this difficult moment, he is with us in ours. God’s promise of “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5) is as true for us as it was for Paul. In his presence, God does for us what he did for Paul—he gives us the strength to share the good news of Jesus. He helps us show the love of God and share the Jesus message even when life is challenging. 

Worship with the song “Great Are You Lord.” Use these lyrics, “You bring light to the darkness, You give hope, you restore,” to form the basis of a prayer of gratitude for God’s presence and help in your difficult moments. 

FRIDAY, JULY 18,2025 

REKINDLE 

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 2 Timothy 1:6 

Paul knows his time is short. He believes his trial in Rome will result in his execution. So, Paul reminds Timothy of some important things. Paul wants the church Timothy leads to survive. Timothy is to use his spiritual gift wholeheartedly for the Lord. Using the analogy of stoking a fire, Paul encourages Timothy to stay loyal to the gospel and be mindful of who influences him. He needs to correctly handle and teach God’s Word, and share the message of Jesus whether he feels like it or not. Timothy must accept this leadership mantle. If his faith is alive, it will multiply. Paul reminds Timothy that Jesus walks alongside him to sustain and empower him for ministry. He can lead with confidence that God will work through him to transform the lives of others. 

These challenges are for us today. We must rekindle our spiritual gift, especially if it has been dormant for a while. The gospel needs to be the center of our lives, and we must recognize how easy it is for other things to take its place. We need to pay attention to the voices we listen to, including the music we hear and the podcasts to which we subscribe. We must also handle God’s Word well because it is the foundation for the good news we are to share. All of this is to say that Paul’s very personal letter to his understudy contains the encouragement we need today. Our lives, once fanned into flame for Christ, will radiate his love and grace.