Daily Encouragementنموونە

Here are instructions for facing the inevitable. No words could constitute a simpler comprehensive guide for missionaries and others in the Lord’s work today. They are as relevant now as they were for Timothy.

The inevitable involves “terrible times in the last days” (2 Tim. 3:1). The “last days” are upon us, as they were upon Timothy, for that term covers the whole period between the first and second comings of our Lord. “Terrible times” will fluctuate during this era, and one of their constant features will be people’s attraction to false teaching rather than the truth.

The instructions for the Lord’s servant are clear:

• “Keep your head in all situations” - panic is out of the question if we really believe the Lord is is control.
• “Endure hardship” - we are not promised an easy time. God is glorified in the suffering of his servants.
• “Do the work of an evangelist” - whatever the situation, the gospel must be preached. We are not to wait for a more convenient season, and often “terrible times” encourage a listening ear.
• “Discharge all the duties of your ministry” - this will include in particular the edifying of believers.

We must obey these instructions; we must help others to do so by our prayers.