Faithful Living

In what way should we live out our faith? In our Bible reading for this week from 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5, we're returning to the teachings of Paul in his second letter to Timothy. We may have read this gut-wrenching scene as Paul writes from prison for the last time, or have seen it portrayed in a play, a film, or on TV, but for many of us it is not our favorite part of the Bible to try and model in our daily lives.

However, we are indeed living out these teachings from Paul to continue to follow what we have learned as people of faith. We just don't think the people who taught us about our faith were anything like the great faith leaders found in the Bible. We don't believe we measure up with what we are going today compared to what those great people of faith went through in their day. We falsely think that it was only these "Hall of Fame Christians" who have actually lived out Paul's call to faith.

Paul wrote: "But you must continue with the things you have learned and found convincing." Then he wrote, "You know who taught you. Since childhood you have known the holy scriptures that help you to be wise in a way that leads to salvation through faith that is in Christ Jesus." (CEB) Those few Bible verses are the calling of God to each of us to rehearse speaking and acting out the love language of God to as many as possible. I see it that way too.

We cannot shy away from the truth of God as unconditional love and seeking to show love to everyone in good times and in bad times. Continue with the biblical truths that you have learned and found convincing.

Take the time to read the entire passage of 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5. Then look back on your faith journey and look forward to your plans for faithful living that start right now!