Today's reading: II Timothy 3-4
...Proclaim the message; be persistent whether the time is favorable or unfavorable; convince, rebuke, and encourage, with the utmost patience in teaching. II Timothy 4: 2 NRSV
There was an expectation that people would soon be following whoever preached what they wanted to hear, so that Timothy was given the instruction to use any and all occasions to share the gospel. The fear was that people would turn away from the true gospel and begin following made-up stories that suited their own desires. Timothy was told not to wait until the time seemed right, but to share the message with a constant patience.
I know many people who follow belief practices that fit their own desires. Yet, I often wait until the time is right before proclaiming God's message. Convince, rebuke, and encourage? Possibly. But do I wait until I am in the pulpit? Is it just preaching and in my devotionals? What do people see in the rest of my life?
How are you proclaiming the message? Are you persistent in your words? How about your actions? Your lifestyle? What encouragement do you need at this time?
God, convince, rebuke and encourage us to share your message and your love. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims
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